Locals have been outraged after a beloved statue of the Virgin Mary was beheaded for the third time.
The statue of the Madonnina della Pelara in Panza, on the island of Ischia, Italy, stands along a path leading to a bay.
But unknown vandals have cut off the statue’s head, leaving the local community bitter and angry, as reported by Need To Know.
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A spokesperson for the local tourist board said: “This is the third time it has happened; it is no longer a coincidence or a stunt.
“In our community, there is someone who does not accept our symbols.
“This is the bitter reality.”
The group said the latest vandalism would not stop them and that the Madonnina would be repaired.
Meanwhile, anger has been growing on social media.
“Shame on you!” commented one user.
Another recalled that the Madonnina was previously vandalised in May 2025.
The Madonnina was also hit in February 2023.
The statue was intended to protect the bay and those who reached it, either by land or water.
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