The Arch of Constantine in Rome was damaged by lightning during a storm.

The Colosseum Archaeological Park confirmed that the structure was struck by lightning. It was built in the 4th century AD to commemorate Emperor Constantine's victory over his rival Maxentius.

The structure, about 25 meters high, is located in the pedestrian area along the Colosseum, which attracts many tourists . One tourist recalled: "A lightning bolt hit the dome, then this corner and we saw this big block of stone fall down."

The incident occurred during a heavy storm that toppled trees, branches and flooded many streets in Rome. The Civil Protection Agency said 60mm of rain fell in the city centre in less than an hour, equivalent to what would normally fall in a month in autumn.

According to Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, the weather phenomenon is called a "downburst", a severe storm with strong winds, similar to the storm that sank tech billionaire Mike Lynch's yacht in Sicily last month.

"The event that happened in Rome was truly unprecedented, because it was so strong and concentrated in a short time in several areas of the city, starting from the historic center," said Mayor Gualtieri.

Hong Hanh (according to Reuters)