Bitcoin News Today: Bronze Satoshi Nakamoto Statue Stolen Vandalized Recovered in Lake Lugano

A life-sized bronze statue of Satoshi Nakamoto, the enigmatic figure behind Bitcoin, was stolen, vandalized, and ultimately dumped into Lake Lugano near its original location in the Swiss city of Lugano [1]. The theft was first reported by X user @Grittoshi, who visited Parco Ciani Park on August 2, 2025, and found the sculpture missing. Grittoshi had posted photos of the intact statue on the previous night, indicating it remained in place during Swiss National Day festivities [1]. The user theorized that a group of intoxicated partygoers may have taken the statue during the late-night celebrations and discarded it in the lake to avoid detection, given the city’s extensive camera coverage [1].

The statue, which was part of a larger global tribute project led by Satoshigallery, was later confirmed to have been recovered from the lake in a damaged state. Multiple X users shared images and updates confirming the discovery, with some expressing concern over the destruction of what they viewed as a symbolic representation of the Bitcoin movement [1]. The group behind the statue announced a reward of 0.1 BTC for any information that could assist in the recovery or identification of those responsible [1]. Despite the incident, Satoshigallery reiterated its commitment to the broader initiative, stating that it would continue to install identical statues in 21 locations around the world [1].

Local crypto and art communities have shown support for the project, with groups such as “Lugano Plan B” beginning an investigation into the theft. Several users on X condemned the act as a violation of public art and a disregard for the cultural significance of the statue. The destruction of the sculpture has sparked a broader conversation about the vulnerability of public installations tied to decentralized and digital movements [1].

The event highlights both the reverence for Satoshi Nakamoto within the Bitcoin ecosystem and the challenges of maintaining physical symbols in public spaces. Although the identity of Satoshi remains a mystery, the theft and subsequent recovery of the statue have underscored the emotional and ideological weight attached to the name. The response from Satoshigallery and the broader community has reflected a determination to continue honoring Satoshi’s legacy, regardless of the disruptions faced [1].

Source: [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/)