Antonello da Messina Masterpieces Stolen in Sicilian Museum Heist

Four of the most important surviving works by the 15th-century Renaissance master Antonello da Messina were stolen overnight from the Museo Regionale in Messina, Sicily, during the national holiday of August 15, according to multiple foreign reports. The theft occurred without alarms being triggered, raising suspicion of a professional operation, the BBC reported.

The thieves took three panels from the Polittico di San Gregorio, a polyptych considered among the painter's masterpieces, along with a fourth work, depriving the city of part of the only surviving paintings by Antonello still held in his hometown, France 24 reported. Local officials expressed dismay and sadness at the theft, which took place during celebrations of the Virgin Mary, CBS News reported.

The Guardian described the theft as a wound to the historical memory and cultural identity of Messina, a port city on Sicily's northeastern coast. The New York Times noted the works were taken as the city held a religious celebration, underscoring the brazen timing of the heist.