Italian Culture Minister Sangiuliano Opposes Free Museum Entry, Cites Costs

In a Sky TG24 interview, Italian Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano addressed environmental protests targeting artworks, stating that art is part of the environment and should be protected. He opposed free museum admission, arguing Italy is already generous with monthly free Sundays and low youth fees, and noted that wealthy tourists can afford Pompeii's €17.50 ticket. On museum staffing, he acknowledged shortages but cited recent hires (1,052 via competition, 500 from placement lists) and plans for more, especially young digital natives. He aligned with Vittorio Sgarbi as a 'conservatore,' quoting Giuseppe Prezzolini's 'Manifesto dei conservatori' to frame conservation as innovation. His ministerial dreams include making culture an economic asset, restoring Palazzo Fuga in Naples, and opening culture to all Italians.