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Controversial Mural of Meloni Sparks Art-Politics Debate

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A mural at Rome's San Lorenzo in Lucina church portrays Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as an angel, by Bruno Valentinetti.
Critics call the artwork an embarrassing hack job and an inappropriate political statement.
After protests, the church removed Meloni's face, and Cardinal Don Baldo Reina expressed bitterness.
The episode highlights Italy's art-politics debate, with some viewing the mural as a troubling sign of divine favor.

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Story summary

A mural at Rome's San Lorenzo in Lucina church portrays Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as an angel, by Bruno Valentinetti.
Critics call the artwork an embarrassing hack job and an inappropriate political statement.
After protests, the church removed Meloni's face, and Cardinal Don Baldo Reina expressed bitterness.
The episode highlights Italy's art-politics debate, with some viewing the mural as a troubling sign of divine favor.