The nude statues and sculptures at the Capitoline Museum in Italy’s capital were covered up in preparation for Iranian President Hassan Rouhani’s visit.
Italian publication The Local reported that the structures were concealed by huge white boxes, which was viewed as a sign of respect for Islamic traditions. Currently on a trip to Europe, Rouhani met Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi at the museum in Rome Monday.
Nude statues covered at #rome Capitoline museum for visit of #iran's #rouhani https://t.co/LTZ6j6SfYX via @Agenzia_Ansa
— JosephineMcKenna (@JosephineMcK) January 26, 2016
The Guardian reported that a spokesman for the city of Rome said that any decision regarding the artwork would have been made by the prime minister’s office.
Additionally, wine was also reportedly not served at the official dinner honoring Rouhani’s visit, which again was seen as a sign of respect for the Muslim country’s traditions.
Iran signed billions of dollars of business deals with Italy Monday during the meeting. Rouhani will remain in Rome until Wednesday, when he will travel to France.