Mcdonald’s plants ancient fast food mosaic in central Rome
By James Herring on Friday, June 6, 2025
McDonald’s just dropped a new campaign in Rome that’s got history buffs seething.
In a bold bit of trolling dressed up as cultural commentary, the fast food giant unveiled a fake ancient Roman mosaic in the Galleria Alberto Sordi that features toga-clad figures feasting on fries and Big Macs.
picture credit: x.com/jdmccafferty
The installation, required 18,000 tiles and the talents of 10 mosaic artists to complete.
The piece was installed to look was freshly excavated, except for the tell tale golden arches among the mosaicked carbs.
McDonald’s says it’s a nod to Rome’s rich heritage, but critics say it’s more like slapping ketchup on a Caravaggio.
The stunt, which is up until 7 June, has lit up Italian social media, with reactions swinging between amused LOLs and full-blown aesthetic outrage.
Its part of a wider campaign encouraging diners to ‘enjoy the classics’.
Back in 1986, the brand made headlines when it opened its first Rome location near the Spanish Steps, sparking protests from locals who feared for their fettuccine.
Fast forward to 2025, and there are over 50 McDonald’s in the Eternal City, each one a little triumph of capitalism over culinary tradition.
Will this latest stunt make people crave a burger with a side of satire? Or is it just another reminder that in late-stage branding, nothing is sacred – not even the ruins.
