Naples: Thieves detached and stole a section of fresco in the ancient Roman city of Pompeii last week, adding to the degradation of one of the world’s outstanding archaeological sites after heavy rain caused sections of wall to collapse.

Heritage lost: The ancient fresco from Pompeii (above) and the same fresco after thieves removed the portrait of a Greek deity from it as they broke into a closed area of the UNESCO World Heritage landmark in Pompeii. The authorities have cordoned off the area after the theft. Pics/AFP