Restored angel resembling Giorgia Meloni sparks meme frenzy in Rome

A restored angel in the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Lucina in Rome has gone viral after its facial features were perceived to resemble Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The controversy began with a scoop by Repubblica and spread rapidly on social media. The angel is located in the chapel housing the bust of Umberto II of Savoy, guarded by two winged figures. After restoration, the angel's determined gaze and eye shape prompted accusations of a tribute to Meloni. The restorer, 83-year-old Bruno Valentinetti, a sacristan and volunteer at the basilica, denied any intentional resemblance, telling Roma Today, "Only you see Meloni." Despite the denial, the internet embraced the angel, creating memes depicting it announcing reforms like the Archangel Gabriel, dressed as the Mona Lisa, or reimagining Michelangelo's Creation of Adam. The incident echoes a previous viral moment when Botticelli's Venus was used in the Open to Meraviglia campaign. The case highlights the intersection of sacred art, current politics, and digital satire, with the angel becoming a star of Italian meme culture without damage to the frescoes.