Rome Church Erases Angel Face Resembling Meloni After Diocese Meeting

Overview

• Restorer Bruno Valentinetti said he removed the face on February 4 after meeting church officials, telling La Repubblica he was instructed to do so by the Vatican.
• The Holy See did not confirm issuing such an order when contacted by AFP.
• The Diocese of Rome and Italy’s Ministry of Culture have sent technicians to inspect the fresco and decide corrective actions.
• Rome’s preservation office announced that future restorations will require prior authorization accompanied by a sketch.
• Valentinetti admitted he intentionally modeled the angel on Giorgia Meloni after initially denying any resemblance.