The unexpected appearance of a church angel bearing a striking resemblance to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has sparked controversy and investigations in Rome, culminating in the painting being hastily painted over.
Basilica Restoration Creates Political Stir
The unusual depiction emerged during recent restoration work at the historic Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina, one of Rome's oldest basilicas located near the Spanish Steps. The cherub, part of decorations in a front chapel, suddenly appeared with facial features remarkably similar to the Italian premier, drawing immediate attention when La Repubblica newspaper published the image on its front page.
Immediate Investigations Launched
Both the Diocese of Rome and the Italian Culture Ministry launched formal investigations into the matter. While the original painting only dated from 2000 - meaning no historic patrimony was damaged - Cardinal Baldassare Reina, the pope's vicar for Rome, firmly stated that political figures have no place in church art.
The controversy brought the basilica unexpected celebrity status, with curious locals and tourists lining up to photograph the Meloni-esque cherub, at times even disrupting Mass services with their presence.
Restorer Admits to Meloni Inspiration
Restorer Bruno Valentinetti admitted to La Repubblica that he had styled the angel on Meloni's features, though he declined to explain his reasons for doing so. The original cherub was created in 2000 during renovations that included a bust of Italy's last king, Umberto II, with the angel depicted kneeling before the monarch while holding a map of Italy.
Following water damage to the basilica starting in 2023, Valentinetti restored the cherub - and it emerged with the face of the current Italian premier.
Swift Cover-Up Overnight
When the basilica opened its doors on Wednesday, visitors discovered the angel's face had been erased with what appeared to be a sloppy application of paint or plaster. Church authorities confirmed the restorer had covered up the image overnight at their request, leaving only the cherub's body visible.
The investigations aimed to identify how the original 2000 cherub appeared, with the intention of properly restoring the painting to that authentic image. The current faceless version appears to be a temporary measure to remove Meloni's likeness from the sacred space.
Premier Responds with Humour
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni responded to the controversy with characteristic humour, writing on social media over the weekend: "No, I definitely don't look like an angel," accompanied by a photo of the work.
The incident highlights the delicate intersection of politics, religion, and art restoration in Italy's capital, where centuries of tradition meet contemporary political realities in unexpected ways.
