On this day - 21 August
Historical items of interest as featured in the papers of the day.
Mona Lisa stolen from Louvre
The Mona Lisa is one of the most famous paintings in the world and has been on display in the Louvre in Paris since 1797. On August 21st 1911 it was stolen by Vincenzo Peruggia, an Italian museum worker who helped to construct the glass display case for the painting. He entered wearing the uniform of a worker and removed the painting from display, before discarding its protective casing and walking out with the painting.
He was able to keep the painting hidden for two years in his apartment, first in Paris then in Florence. He was caught and the painting returned after Peruggia contacted an art dealer expecting a reward as he had returned the Mona Lisa to Italy which Peruggia deemed the painting's "homeland".
Want to read more about this event and numerous other events from history? A subscription allows you unlimited access to continue reading and to view pages in greater detail. Log in and look at our online shop for prices.
Check back every day to see a different event from history highlighted.