(1) Whosoever unlawfully damages or destroys objects of veneration of a religious association existing within Germany or property dedicated to religious worship, or tombstones, public monuments, natural monuments, objects of art, science or craft which are kept in public collections or publicly exhibited, or objects which serve a public need or add to the ambience of public paths, squares or parks, shall be liable to imprisonment not exceeding three years or a fine.

(2) Whosoever unlawfully alters the appearance of an object listed under subsection (1) above substantially and permanently shall incur the same penalty

(3) The attempt shall be punishable.