Pompeii, Italy, March 21, 2007Vandals appear to have toppled an ancient column in the archaeological site of Pompeii, local authorities announced on Wednesday. The structure, which stood in the garden of a Roman villa, broke into several pieces, as seen in this image released by excavation officials.

The sheer force needed to topple the huge column indicates the act was intentional, spokesperson Francesca de Lucia told the Associated Press. But investigating authorities have not yet ruled out the possibility it was an accident.

Experts who examined the broken pieces say the structure can be restored.

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