Repeated vandalism Closure of Collegiate Church in Lugo
According to a report from 10 August 2026, the Collegiate Church of Sts. Francis and Hilary in Lugo was the target of repeated vandalism in recent weeks, including an incident in which five youths damaged church property by damaging a newly purchased candelabrum, spitting on it and breaking into donation boxes. Following the incidents, the parish has decided to close the church throughout the day.
According to reports from August 2026, the Collegiate Church of Sts. Francis and Hilary in Lugo was the target of repeated vandalism in recent weeks which has forced the Church to close its doors throughout the day. The first incident occurred on 31 July 2026, when five youths were seen inside the Church in Lugo by the parish priest, Don Leonardo Poli, damaging a newly purchased candelabrum, spitting on it, damaging other candles, and forcibly opening an donation boxes. The incident was reported to the police on 6 August by the priest, who provided surveillance footage.
According to the reports, there had been similar incidents of vandalism and property damage to the Catholic place of worship in the preceding weeks, with the group regularly present in the area around the Church, causing local disturbances. Following the repeated incidents, Don Poli decided that the Church would remain closed during the day after the morning Mass until an alarm system could be installed. The measure was intended to prevent further incidents while preserving access for religious services.
On 13 August 2026, the community issued a public response condemning the vandalism. They wrote: "Violence, vandalism, abuse, and oppression are not part of living together. Our community stands for coexistence, peace, mutual respect." Their statement presented the incidents as unacceptable while calling for a constructive response to the young people involved.
UPDATE: According to a report from 26 August, police have arrested 5 minors, two girls and three boys, for the theft and damage of the Collegiate Church.
Sources: ravennatoday, corriereromagna
Symbolic Image: Pixabay