Sponsor Logo Projection on Florence Monuments Sparks Controversy

From December 8, 2021, to January 9, 2022, the F-Light Festival of Lights in Florence ignited debate when American Express's logo was displayed on historical landmarks, including the Ponte Vecchio. The event, organized by the municipality and MUS.E under the direction of Sergio Risaliti, also highlighted sites such as the Museo Galileo and Basilica of San Miniato al Monte. At a City Council meeting on January 10, leftist politicians condemned the projection as 'indecent exploitation' and raised concerns about its approval. Superintendent Andrea Pessina clarified, 'We did not design that image.' Meanwhile, MUS.E defended the projection as a brief sponsor acknowledgment. Mayor Dario Nardella admitted the projection was 'inappropriate' but stressed the necessity of sponsorship for cultural projects during the pandemic.