Colosseum: Tourist who carved on wall 'unaware of arena's age'

A tourist filmed carving names on to an inner wall at Rome's ancient Colosseum says he did not realise how old the monument was when he acted.

Bristol-based Ivan Dimitrov made the comment in a letter of apology to Rome's mayor, saying he understood "the seriousness of the deed".

He etched "Ivan + Hayley 23" - his and his girlfriend's names - on the 2,000-year-old amphitheatre with a key.

His actions were filmed by a bystander in June and sparked condemnation.

A five-day police search followed and he now reportedly faces legal proceedings.

In the letter, seen by BBC News West, Mr Dimitrov offered his "heartfelt and honest apologies to the Italians and to the whole world".

He continued: "I admit with profound embarrassment that only after what regretfully happened did I learn of the antiquity of the monument."

He said that he praised those who "guard the inestimable historical and artistic value of the Colosseum with dedication, care and sacrifice".

He added: "I am also aware of the fact that a similar conduct, in my country, would result in far more serious consequences.

"For this reason I assume all responsibility and I will sincerely and concretely commit myself to redeem and remedy the mistake I made.

"The incivility, superficiality and thoughtlessness with which I acted, damaging the Colosseum to the detriment of anyone who legitimately wishes to admire and enjoy it, have no justification."

The lawyer for Mr Dimitrov, Alexandro Maria Tirelli, told the BBC: "We have already formulated a plea bargain request.

"The boy will certainly benefit from a suspended sentence, the fact is heinous but not serious."

The 27-year-old man was filmed by another visitor who verbally reprimanded him before handing the recording to security officials.

A video of the scene was uploaded on to YouTube and shared across social media.

If convicted of an offence, he could face a fine of up to 15,000 euros (£12,500) as well as a prison sentence of between two and five years.

Mr Dimitrov's lawyer told Il Messaggero newspaper that it is hoped the letter will help his client avoid the harshest sentence.

The Colosseum is one of the best-known symbols of Imperial Rome, and Italy's most popular tourist site.

It is a protected Unesco World Heritage Site, meaning it is considered to be a place of "outstanding universal value".

The incident prompted widespread condemnation in Italy and across the globe.

Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano said it "was offensive to everyone around the world who appreciates the value of archaeology, monuments and history".