Iconic Satoshi Nakamoto Statue in Lugano, Switzerland, Found Vandalized and Destroyed

The iconic statue of Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, has been recovered after being reported stolen from a popular park in Lugano, Switzerland.

Municipal workers into several pieces in and around Lake Lugano, confirming it had been forcibly removed from its base and vandalized.

The incident took place over the weekend, shortly after the Swiss National Day celebrations on Friday, August 1, a time when the lakeside park was filled with activity.

The statue had been torn from its pedestal, leaving only its feet attached to the otherwise intact base.

Observers believe the incident was likely an impulsive act of vandalism rather than a targeted theft, given the extensive damage and the presence of nearby surveillance cameras. Many in the community have speculated that intoxicated partygoers may have been responsible.

The statue, designed by Italian artist and Bitcoin advocate Valentina Picozzi, had been unveiled in October 2024 as part of Lugano’s broader effort to establish itself as a Bitcoin hub.

Its unique design featured disappearing stripes symbolizing Satoshi Nakamoto fading into code, a visual metaphor for the pseudonymous creator’s legacy.

The piece had quickly become a flagship symbol for the crypto movement, celebrated by Bitcoin supporters worldwide.

News of the disappearance first circulated on social media, where photos showed the empty base and a metal plaque still bearing Satoshi’s name.

As speculation mounted, Satoshigallery, the collective behind the installation, offered a 0.1 BTC reward for any information leading to the statue’s recovery. The group has since confirmed that the statue was retrieved, but in damaged condition.

The event sparked widespread outrage within the crypto community, with many expressing frustration over what they saw as a senseless attack on a cultural symbol.

While the exact motive remains unknown, several community members have linked the act to intoxicated partygoers passing through the area after the national celebrations.

Irrespective of the damage, Satoshigallery is continuing its plan to install 21 similar Satoshi statues in cities around the world.