Michelangelo lions restored at French embassy in Rome

Hundreds of lion gargoyles designed by Michelangelo have been restored at Palazzo Farnese in Rome, the Renaissance palace that houses the French embassy, restorers and officials said Friday.

The 300 sculptures on the cornice around the building were among the highlights of a five-year restoration of the palace's roof and facades. Restorers said each lion sculpture is different.

French architect Pierre-Antoine Gatier said restorers had identified one lion head on the front of the building that they believe was sculpted by Michelangelo himself. He described the project as one of constant discoveries.

Gatier said the team also found evidence that the facade had been used for sport, after ancient tennis balls were discovered in its crevices.

Rome's chief cultural officer, Daniela Porro, praised the 16th-century palace, whose facade was designed by Michelangelo, as a universal masterpiece of architecture. The palace has housed the French embassy since the 19th century.