Gold Toilet stolen from English Palace

February 28, 2025

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A valuable toilet made of 18-carat gold was stolen from Blenheim Palace, England, in a daring burglary on September 14, 2019.

The toilet, an artwork named America by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, was worth over NZ$10.6 million and had been on display for visitors to use. Prosecutors believe the thieves took less than five minutes to remove it, causing water damage to the historic site.

During a trial at Oxford Crown Court, prosecutor Julian Christopher called it an “audacious raid.” On the night of the theft, a group of men crashed through the gates in two stolen vehicles, broke a palace window, and swiftly removed the golden toilet.

The toilet has never been recovered, but authorities suspect it was cut up and sold as gold.

Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of British leader Winston Churchill, suffered significant damage from the theft. The case highlights how even highly secure locations can be targeted by determined thieves.

Article written by Milli Banbury

This article was written using AI as an assistive tool for research and writing.

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

Learning Options

Recall Questions

Thinking questions

Digital Thinking

The library was quieter than usual after lunch. Near the returns desk, a student had left a nearly finished novel open on the table beside a half-eaten apple. On the top page of the book, a note in neat handwriting said, 'Back after maths.' Aroha glanced at the time and smiled. She pushed the book closer to the edge of the table, just enough for the student to find it easily, and placed the apple in the rubbish bin. Then she straightened the chairs in the reading corner before heading out.

What does Aroha’s behaviour suggest about her?

She is likely upset that someone left a book behind. She is likely trying to hide the missing apple. She is likely impatient and wants everyone to leave the library. She is likely considerate and helpful.