Likeness of restored angel to Giorgia Meloni triggers investigations in Rome

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Ashifa Kassam in RomeFebruary 1, 2026 at 05:04 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Investigations have been launched by Italy's culture ministry and the Diocese of Rome following claims that a restored angel in the Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina bears a striking resemblance to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The controversy began after a newspaper highlighted the angel's "astonishingly contemporary face" post-restoration. The culture ministry dispatched technicians to assess the work and determine appropriate action. Meloni responded humorously on social media, while the parish priest stated he requested a faithful restoration and was unaware of the resemblance. Opposition politicians have called for investigations into potential breaches of heritage regulations, raising concerns about the use of art for propaganda. The restoration was prompted by water damage to the chapel, which housed a relatively recent painting from the year 2000.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ansa 30% Irene Manzi 30% Daniele Micheletti 40% Partito Democratico 40% Five Star Movement 40% Diocese of Rome 50% La Repubblica 50% Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina ×260% Italy ×270% Rome ×270% Giorgia Meloni ×490%

Keywords

art restoration 90% giorgia meloni 80% likeness controversy 70% angel 70% investigation 60% rome 50% cultural heritage 50% basilica of st lawrence 40%