Man Fined for Using Altar in Performance Art in Saarbrücken

Case information
Incident date
Country
Germany
Categories
  • Social Hostility / Intolerance
Attack Against
  • Faith
Perpetrator / Motive Indicators
  • Private
Societal Sphere
  • Arts
Hate Crime & Violent Incidents
  • Intolerance towards Religious Symbols

In January 2016, Alexander Karle crossed the barrier to the altar of the basilica of Sankt Johann and did push-ups for a video he called "Pressure to perform". An administrative court imposed a fine of EUR 700 for trespassing and disturbance of religious practice. Karle has appealed, citing artistic freedom.