Four Renaissance masterworks by Antonello da Messina were reported stolen from the MuMe Regional Interdisciplinary Museum in Messina, Sicily, following a late-evening theft on 16 August 2026. The theft was reported on 17 August 2026.
Two panels recovered near museum grounds
Authorities said two of the stolen panels, depicting Saint Benedict and Saint Gregory, were later abandoned and found close to the museum grounds. Officials said the thieves exploited the distraction of the citywide Ferragosto procession when the heist occurred.
Valuation and official reaction
Cultural officials provided an estimate that the four works could be worth up to €80 million. MuMe's director, Marisa Mercurio, described the museum's response to the loss, saying: "We are devastated by what happened."
Investigators and museum officials are handling the case and assessing security and provenance records for the missing panels. The discovery that two panels were abandoned nearby has given officials physical leads even as two other works remain unlocated.
Context
- The theft took place at the MuMe Regional Interdisciplinary Museum in Messina.
- The incident occurred on the evening of 16 August 2026 and was publicly reported on 17 August 2026.
- Two panels portraying Saint Benedict and Saint Gregory were recovered near the museum.
- Cultural officials estimated the total possible value of the works at up to €80 million.
Further details, including the status of the investigation and the condition of the recovered panels, have been provided by museum and cultural officials as they continue their inquiries.
