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Esslingen bronze statue controversy
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2026-10-20 02:27 UTC → 2026-10-20 02:29 UTC ·
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The installation of a bronze sculpture titled ‘Zwieblinger Teufel’ by artist Tim Bengel in Esslingen am Neckar has triggered significant public debate and criminal investigations. The life-sized 2.5-meter-tall figure, depicting a devil from a local legend, was unveiled to commemorate the city’s 1250th anniversary. The monument has faced opposition via an online petition that gathered over 5,000 has grown to more than 5,600 signatures from critics calling the work tasteless. The situation This backlash has escalated from verbal criticism to into criminal activity, including the defacement of the statue with black paint. Authorities Authorities, including the Esslingen police station and the criminal inspection unit responsible for state security services crimes, are currently investigating various cases of insults, property damage, and threats against life and limb, including limb. This includes a specific call for the murder threat directed at of Mayor Matthias Klopfer. Despite the ongoing threats and backlash, vandalism, the city administration has announced maintained its intention decision to keep the sculpture in its location in front of the town hall.
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- 2026-10-20 02:29 UTC Esslingen bronze statue controversy
- 2026-10-20 02:27 UTC Esslingen bronze statue controversy
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