Controversy Erupts Over Fresco Restoration Resembling Italian PM Meloni

Tue Feb 03 2026 23:29:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An investigation has been launched in Italy after a restored angel fresco was alleged to resemble Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, sparking debate and outrage.

Officials in Italy are investigating claims that a recently restored fresco in a chapel resembles Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The Culture Ministry has dispatched inspectors to assess the work, while the artist and church officials deny any intent to model the angel after the PM. The situation has drawn criticism from opposition parties and raised questions about artistic integrity and political influence.

Church and government officials in Italy have launched an investigation into claims that the face of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was painted on an angel during the restoration of a fresco in Rome.

Italy's culture ministry has sent officers to inspect the artwork in a chapel of the Basilica of St Lawrence in Lucina, while the Diocese of Rome expressed its disappointment and said it would determine who had been responsible.

The artist, Bruno Valentinetti, stated he had merely restored the fresco he painted in 2000 and denied modeling the angel after the prime minister.

Meloni humorously reacted on Instagram, asserting she was definitely not like an angel, accompanied by a laughing emoji.

The apparent likeness was first reported on Saturday by Italian newspaper La Repubblica, which showcased before-and-after pictures of the fresco. The article highlighted that the angel holding a map of Italy had previously resembled a generic cherub.

The parish priest claimed the paintings had merely been restored after recent water damage and stated he did not understand the fuss about the resemblance.

Valentinetti, now 83, firmly rejected the allegations, insisting the restored face was the same as the one painted 25 years ago, questioning who rightly claimed it resembled Meloni.

Opposition parties swiftly called for an investigation, with Irene Manzi from the Democratic Party labeling the situation unacceptable, while the Five Star Movement warned against art becoming a tool for propaganda, regardless of its resemblance to Meloni.

Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli directed technical officials to inspect the painting to ascertain the nature of the intervention and decide on the next steps.

The Diocese of Rome acknowledged the restoration but stated they had been assured that no changes were made. The cardinal in charge announced a prompt investigation to determine the possible responsibilities of those involved.

The cardinal distanced himself from the parish priest's comments and expressed dismay at the events, reiterating the commitment to preserving the church's artistic and spiritual heritage against misuse.