Sicily's New Cultural Chief Alberto Samonà Faces Controversy Over Far-Right Past

In an interview with Artribune, Alberto Samonà, the newly appointed assessor for Cultural Heritage and Sicilian Identity, defends his history with far-right affiliations while detailing his vision for Sicily's cultural landscape. Appointed by Governor Nello Musumeci despite opposition from leftist groups, Samonà admits to his connections with the far-right Fronte della Gioventù and the Five Star Movement, yet claims to represent the right. He criticizes the DDL Sammartino bill, which shifts oversight from Soprintendenze to municipalities, deeming it problematic. His initiatives aim to bolster Soprintendenze, tackle staffing issues, and recruit museum directors from Europe. Additionally, he plans to revitalize the Museo Riso in Palermo and introduce the 'Ierofanie' project focused on sacred art, along with a States General of Culture.