A 69-year-old Japanese tourist, identified as Morimasa Hibino, has died after falling from the ancient Pantheon in Rome during a trip to Europe with his daughter, Italian authorities have confirmed.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday, October 24, when Hibino reportedly lost his balance while resting on the parapet near the 2,000-year-old monument and fell approximately 23 feet, according to La Repubblica.
His distraught daughter immediately called for help, and firefighters rushed to the scene. They found Hibino in critical condition, suffering from severe injuries and heavy blood loss. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after.
Roman police told CNN that an investigation has been launched into the incident, though no foul play is suspected. Officials believe the victim may have become dizzy before accidentally falling.
The Pantheon — originally constructed between 25 and 27 BC and later rebuilt in 125 AD — remains one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Though it still serves as a Catholic church, it was reportedly closed to visitors at the time of the accident.
Authorities noted that the modern city of Rome sits about 23 feet higher than its original level, creating potential hazards around several ancient sites. The Pantheon, in particular, lies below street level, with a drop between the building and the road that can be dangerous for unwary visitors.
This is not the first such tragedy in the Italian capital; in March, a 55-year-old Spanish woman also died after falling from a wall near the famous Spanish Steps.
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