Vittorio Sgarbi Named Undersecretary of Culture, Pushes Radical Conservation and New Music Department

Vittorio Sgarbi has been appointed Undersecretary of Culture in Italy, a role championed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, after earlier rumors that he might become Minister—a position ultimately given to Gennaro Sangiuliano. In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Sgarbi outlined a program centered on radical conservation. He criticized the relocation of Michelangelo's Pietà Rondanini from its original setting in the Sala degli Scarlioni at the Castello Sforzesco in Milan to an anonymous room in the same castle, calling it a vulgar lack of respect. Milan Mayor Beppe Sala countered that the sculpture is fine where it is and suggested the government should prioritize other cultural issues. Sgarbi also defended traditional landscapes against solar panels, citing the Tuscia region as an example where photovoltaic fields should not replace vineyards and olive groves. He distinguished his own non-ideological conservation from Sangiuliano's ideological conservatism. Additionally, Sgarbi announced plans to extend museum opening hours until at least 9 PM, with free admission for workers. On Repubblica, he revealed a new music department within the Ministry of Culture, to be led by singer-songwriter Morgan (Marco Castoldi). Morgan confirmed his role, stating he has discussed culture with Sgarbi for over twenty years and aims to promote Italy's undervalued cultural heritage.