Salzburg: Works by the world-renowned Austrian composer Mozart have been stolen from the center of Salzburg, as the Mozarteum, the foundation dedicated to preserving his legacy, announced the disappearance of more than 200 golden statues of the composer from his birthplace. This incident has impacted the festive atmosphere surrounding the 270th anniversary of Mozart’s birth.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the foundation had unveiled 320 statues in July, each less than 50 centimeters tall, depicting Mozart with his dog. These statues, designed by German conceptual artist Ottmar Horl, were part of the public art project titled “Mozart – The Wild Genius.” The statues were strategically placed throughout the city, including Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s home, and the wooden cottage where he composed The Magic Flute.

Within hours of the unveiling, German radio reported that at least two statues were stolen, a number that quickly rose to approximately 80 in the following weeks. Officials have now stated that 210 statues are missing. Artist Horl expressed that his intention was not to create another monument to Mozart but to illustrate his humanity, portraying him as an ordinary person despite his genius.

Horl suspects the thefts were organized, asserting that ordinary visitors were unlikely to be responsible. The artist had planned to sell the gold Mozart statues for 90 euros ($104) each, with the total loss estimated at around 20,000 euros ($23,000). Although some spare statues were available to cover potential thefts, these were insufficient to address the significant losses incurred.

The remaining statues, now spaced further apart, are expected to remain on display until August 30. Despite the thefts, Salzburg continues to honor Mozart, with its annual week featuring various events dedicated to the composer.