Antonio Natali: Italy's neglect of culture reflects political and media disinterest

Antonio Natali, former director of the Uffizi Gallery (2006–2015), argues that Italy's political and media indifference to cultural heritage is longstanding and systemic. He notes that during government formation, the culture ministry receives little attention from parties or press, indicating low public interest. Natali criticizes the focus on a few major museums and calls for investing in lesser-known sites, improving art education, and promoting conscious tourism. He urges the new minister to prioritize intellectual growth over economic metrics, warning that neglect leads to decay. The article was published in Grandi Mostre #11 on Artribune.