Overview
- The culture ministry sent Rome’s chief heritage official to inspect the fresco and recommend next steps.
- The Diocese of Rome said it is reviewing the case with the parish, as Cardinal Baldo Reina cautioned against using sacred art for other purposes.
- Heritage authorities noted the fresco dates to about 2000, is outside formal monument protection, and was retouched after water damage.
- Volunteer restorer Bruno Valentinetti acknowledged doing the work but denied intentionally portraying Giorgia Meloni, saying he “restored what was there.”
- Officials are weighing a return to the previous appearance while political critics decry possible propaganda, as Meloni joked on Instagram and crowds visit the chapel.