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Italy investigates church painting of angel restored to look like Meloni

The restoration of a cherub fresco in Rome's Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina sparked investigations after critics noted its face resembles Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

  • On Jan 31 a restored fresco angel in Rome's Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina drew attention for resembling Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni above Umberto II's bust.
  • Because the original 2000 fresco was not heritage-protected, water infiltrations prompted restoration, which involved reproducing existing elements, according to restorer Valentinetti.
  • On Sunday and Monday the basilica was crowded with visitors photographing the angel, at times disrupting Mass, while Daniele Micheletti said `There is indeed a certain resemblance` and defended the sacristan who carried out the work.
  • After opposition complaints, Italy's culture minister ordered an inspection on Jan 31, and the Diocese's vicar general said investigations would establish responsibility.
  • Observers said the likeness fed debates about monarchy, nationalism and the prime minister's party roots, as the cherub kneels before Umberto II holding Italy's outline, boosting the basilica's profile.
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A restored angel in one of the oldest churches in Rome becomes a magnet for visitors. His face is reminiscent of that of the Italian Prime Minister. Meloni appeared to the painter in his dream.

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After his restoration, a fresco in a church in Rome makes a stir. An angel now wears features similar to those of the head of government Meloni. She takes it with humor, but not everyone can laugh at the resemblance.

·Hamburg, Germany
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La Repubblica broke the news in Turin, Italy on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
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