Italian Minister Under Scrutiny Over 2015 Facebook Post Featuring Mussolini Bust
Table of Contents
Daniela Santanchè, Italy’s current Minister of Tourism, is facing scrutiny following the resurfacing of a 2015 Facebook post featuring a bust of Benito Mussolini. The post, originally shared on the private profile of Santanchè’s partner, Canio Mazzaro, also known as Dimitri Perricciolo, included the caption “We are working with grandfather Benito to create our relaxing corner.” Chiara Colosimo, a politician with Giorgia Meloni’s party at the time, was tagged in the post. [1] The discovery has sparked controversy and raised questions about potential apologies for fascism within the current Italian government.
the Resurfaced Photo and Initial Reactions
the photograph, dating back to June 10, 2015, shows a bust of the Italian fascist dictator in what appears to be a home setting.At the time, Colosimo was already a member of parliament and had served a term as a regional councilor for the party led by Giorgia Meloni, the current Prime Minister of Italy. [1]
the image came to light after being reported by journalist Fabio Mottola. when questioned about the photo,Perricciolo initially responded,”I’m still right-wing,yes,is that a crime?” and denied the presence of a Mussolini bust in their home. [1] She then questioned the source of the photo, suggesting it had been online for years and expressing uncertainty about remembering it. “Think about how serious it could have been that we’ve kept her on the profile for years… I don’t no, I don’t remember this photo, but if you say that this photo is there, this photo will be there,” she stated. [1] Perricciolo further claimed she does not own any busts of Mussolini and could not recall where the photo was taken, suggesting it might have been a joke. [1]
Political Context and Potential Implications
The incident is particularly sensitive given Italy’s complex relationship with its fascist past and the current political climate. Giorgia Meloni’s Brothers of Italy party traces its roots to the post-fascist Italian Social Movement (MSI). While Meloni has repeatedly condemned fascism and distanced herself from its ideology, critics argue that the resurfacing of this photo demonstrates a lingering sympathy for Mussolini and his regime within her political circle. [2]
The controversy comes at a time when the Italian government is attempting to navigate a delicate balance between acknowledging its history and projecting a modern, democratic image. The incident raises concerns about the potential for tacit apologies for fascism, a sensitive issue in Italy and internationally.
Responses from Involved Parties
As of November 9, 2025, Santanchè has not directly addressed the photo. Perricciolo’s responses have been largely dismissive and evasive, attributing the post to a possible joke or a lapse in memory.Colosimo has not publicly commented on the matter.[1]
Key Takeaways
* A 2015 Facebook post featuring a bust of benito Mussolini belonging to the partner of Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanchè has resurfaced.
* Chiara Colosimo, a politician from Giorgia Meloni’s party, was tagged in the post.
* Santanchè’s partner, Canio Mazzaro (Dimitri Perricciolo), initially denied the existence of the bust and expressed uncertainty about the photo’s origin.
* The incident has sparked debate about potential apologies for fascism within the current Italian government.
Sources:
1][https://wwwrepubblicait/politica/2024/02/29/news/santanche_mussolini_foto_facebook-446444441/[https://wwwrepubblicait/politica/2024/02/29/news/santanche_mussolini_foto_facebook-446444441/
2][https://wwwtheguardiancom/world/2022/oct/22/giorgia-meloni-italy-first-woman-prime-minister-far-right[https://wwwtheguardiancom/world/2022/oct/22/giorgia-meloni-italy-first-woman-prime-minister-far-right