Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina

The Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina, a historic church in central Rome, is at the center of a controversy involving a recently restored fresco. The restoration of an angel figure in a chapel within the basilica has sparked investigations by both the Italian culture ministry and the diocese of Rome. The issue arose after an Italian newspaper, La Repubblica, pointed out the striking resemblance of the angel's face to Italy's current Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. This perceived likeness led to public outcry and embarrassment for the Vatican. As a result, the artist responsible for the restoration crudely scrubbed out the angel's face, effectively removing the resemblance. The investigations aim to determine the circumstances surrounding the restoration and whether there was any deliberate intention to depict the Prime Minister in the fresco. The incident has drawn national attention, highlighting the intersection of art, politics, and religious institutions in Italy.