AllMovie

Nova takes the viewer to Rome to witness the restoration of one of the world's artistic masterpieces in Nova: Saving the Sistine Chapel. Located in the heart of the Vatican, Michelangelo's backbreaking project was abused and neglected for years. Layer upon layer of paint and pollution obscured the original brilliance of the Biblical scene. In this Emmy award-winning program, Nova documents the beginning of a 12-year mission to uncover the fresco. Some of the techniques are controversial, stemming from a disbelief as to the real colors used to paint the ceiling. However, restoration artists are precise in their measurements, giving testimony to the historical accuracy. When the project is complete, visitors to the site should be able to gaze upon the awesome tableau in all its intended glory.