NPR

Thieves Steal A Famous Painting From An Italian Church — But Don't Worry, It's Fake

After authorities were tipped off about the heist, they replaced the Flemish masterpiece with a replica.
Art thieves tried to steal a painting by Pieter Brueghel the Younger (1564-1638), but the artwork, titled <em>The Crucifixion,</em> had been switched out for a copy.

Art thieves stole a Flemish masterpiece valued at 3 million euros from a small Italian town church last week. Or so they thought.

To their surprise, the painting they stole was actually a fake. Town leaders and the with a replica.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Justice Thomas Decries 'Nastiness' And 'Lies' Against Him
The Supreme Court justice told attendees at a judicial conference that he and his wife have faced "nastiness" and "lies" over the last several years and decried Washington as a "hideous place."
NPR4 min read
Senate Passes FAA Reauthorization Bill, Sending Legislation To The House
The Senate passed a bill designed to improve safety and customer service for air travelers, a day before the law governing the Federal Aviation Administration expires.
NPR5 min read
Why Writing By Hand Beats Typing For Thinking And Learning
Researchers are learning that handwriting engages the brain in ways typing can't match, raising questions about the costs of ditching this age-old practice, especially for kids.

Related