Italy covers nude statues to avoid offending Iranian president

The Italian government has been criticised for covering up some of the country’s racier nude statues to avoid offending the Iranian President during his visit.

Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi has been accused of “surrendering” the country’s cultural identity by ordering for the statues to be covered in a show of respect for Islamic traditions during President Hassan Rouhani’s visit.

Italy and Iran signed $26 billion in business deals during the two day visit.

The nude sculptures inside the museum were covered by large white boxes.

Wine was also reportedly not served at the official dinner during President Rouhani’s visit, according to Iran’s request.