Bitcoin News Today: Bitcoin Creator Statue Stolen Then Found Submerged in Swiss Lake

A life-sized statue of Satoshi Nakamoto, the enigmatic figure credited with creating Bitcoin, was stolen from Parco Ciani Park in Lugano, Switzerland, and later discovered submerged in a nearby lake. The disappearance was first reported by X user @Grittoshi on August 2, 2025, after the individual confirmed the sculpture was missing during a visit to the park. According to @Grittoshi’s account, the statue had been intact as of the night before, during Swiss National Day celebrations [1]. A theory circulating on social media suggests a group of intoxicated individuals may have removed the statue during late-night festivities and dumped it into the lake to evade detection, given the city's extensive surveillance [1].

The statue, designed by Italian artist Valentina Picozzi, was unveiled in 2024 as part of Satoshigallery’s global initiative to honor Bitcoin’s creator. It was installed in Lugano as part of the city’s efforts to establish itself as a center for cryptocurrency innovation. The sculpture was notable for its disappearing effect when viewed from the front or back, symbolizing the anonymity of Satoshi Nakamoto [1]. Following its discovery in the lake, images and footage of the submerged and broken statue were shared on X by @Grittoshi, confirming the theft and the likely location of the statue [1].

In response, Satoshigallery announced a reward of 0.1 BTC—approximately $11,000 at current prices—for any information leading to the recovery of the statue or the identification of those responsible. The group emphasized its commitment to continuing the project, with plans to erect identical statues in 21 cities worldwide. Two other statues have already been installed—one in Bitcoin Beach, El Salvador, and another in Tokyo, Japan [1].

Local groups, including “Lugano Plan B,” have begun investigations into the incident, reflecting the deep engagement of the community with both the artwork and the broader cryptocurrency movement. The theft has sparked discussions about the vulnerability of public art tied to digital and decentralized ideals, yet the response from Satoshigallery and the community underscores a determination to continue honoring Satoshi’s legacy [1].

Sources:

[1] Where is Satoshi Nakamoto? Statue Honouring the Bitcoin Creator Gets Stolen in Lugano (https://cryptoadventure.com/where-is-satoshi-nakamoto-statue-honouring-the-bitcoin-creator-gets-stolen-in-lugano/)