Puerto Rican music sensation Bad Bunny has found himself embroiled in controversy after breaking a fundamental museum rule during his world tour in Mexico City.
Incident at the National Museum
The incident occurred on 17 December 2025 at the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). While visiting the renowned institution, the global superstar, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, physically touched a protected Mayan stone slab, or stela. The moment was initially captured and shared on his Instagram account before being swiftly deleted following the reprimand.
According to an official statement from INAH, museum staff intervened immediately upon witnessing the breach. They informed the artist that direct contact with archaeological items is strictly forbidden to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Legal Ramifications and Potential Penalties
This was not a minor transgression of museum etiquette. In Mexico, such actions carry significant legal weight under the Federal Law on Monuments and Archaeological, Artistic and Historical Zones.
The law clearly states that individuals who touch, damage, or remove protected artefacts or archaeological pieces can face serious consequences. These include substantial fines and, in severe cases, even imprisonment. The authorities have not yet confirmed whether the specific stela Bad Bunny touched was inspected for any potential damage after the event.
Tour Context and Public Reaction
The museum visit took place as part of Bad Bunny's Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour. The timing is particularly sensitive as the artist prepares for a high-profile performance at the upcoming Super Bowl, where he has previously joked about needing to "learn Spanish in four months."
The episode has sparked criticism from cultural heritage advocates and fans alike, highlighting the universal responsibility to respect and protect historical treasures, regardless of one's celebrity status. It serves as a stark reminder that museum rules are in place for a vital reason and apply to every visitor equally.
