This interview highlights the disturbing state of affairs in the field of Italian cultural assets conservation. The author claims this was brought about by the inability of local authorities and the speculative maneuvers of private interest groups. Two basic requirements emerge: (1) for an ongoing identification of what should be conserved and (2) for the formation of <i>ad hoc</i> teams of experts (restorers, restoration chemists, and architectural and art historians) capable of adopting a global approach to all the various aspects of conservation. To further improve the situation, it is hoped that a body concerned with the training of those working in the sector will be established and the public sector will be able to monitor operations.