Diocese of Rome

The Diocese of Rome, the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope), is currently involved in an investigation regarding a restored fresco in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina. The controversy arose after the Italian newspaper *La Repubblica* reported that the face of one of the angels in the fresco bore a striking resemblance to Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni. This sparked public outcry and prompted both the Diocese and Italy's Culture Ministry to launch separate investigations. The artist responsible for the restoration has since crudely scrubbed out the angel's face. The incident has drawn significant media attention and raised questions about the appropriateness of incorporating contemporary political figures into religious artwork. The Diocese's involvement highlights its responsibility for overseeing artistic and religious integrity within its churches.