Priceless masterpieces by Renaissance masters including Raphael, Titian and Caravaggio could be seriously damaged by excessive heat and humidity following the collapse of the air conditioning system at the Borghese Gallery in Rome.
The renowned gallery is one of Italy's most popular tourist attractions with more than 500,000 visitors a year, but appears to be the latest casualty from dramatic cuts in arts funding.
Anna Coliva, gallery director, said the air conditioning had broken down two months ago and precious art works were now facing serious risk.
