Uproar Over Meloni’s Face Painted on an Angel in a Church in Rome

New York Times - WorldCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 75% complete by Elisabetta PovoledoFebruary 2, 2026 at 07:40 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

A recently restored angel fresco in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina, Rome, has sparked controversy due to its resemblance to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The fresco, part of a chapel restoration completed in late 2025, depicts an angel holding a scroll with the outline of Italy. A Rome newspaper highlighted the resemblance, leading to protests from opposition lawmakers and increased public attention. While the parish priest downplayed the issue, calling it a "tempest in a teacup," the fresco has become a popular attraction for Romans and tourists. Meloni herself responded on Instagram, stating she doesn't look like an angel. The chapel, previously dedicated to Italian monarchists, underwent restoration after water damage.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Edoardo Farsi 40% Umberto II 40% La Repubblica 50% Guido Reni 50% Daniele Micheletti ×260% Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina ×270% Rome ×380% Italy ×380% Giorgia Meloni ×490%

Sentiment Analysis

Neutral

Score: -0.10

Source Transparency

Source

New York Times - World

Political Lean

Center-Left (-0.30)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

Geographic Perspective

Italy

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).