Rome has a new superintendent for archaeology. After 28 years in this prestigious and often difficult position at the ministry of culture and fine arts, Adriano La Regina has been replaced by his colleague Angelo Bottini.

Bottini, an expert in Etruscan archaeology has held posts for the ministry of fine arts and culture in Basilicata, Rome and recently as superintendent of archaeology for Tuscany.

La Regina, who was famous for his inflexible attitude as protector of Romes archaeological heritage, had hoped to be able to retain his position for a further few years, even though at 67 he had reached retirement age. The bureaucratic loopholes required to permit him to stay on were created but then the money to pay him was not available.