Vatican City, 1 July (AKI) - The Vatican has unveiled a chapel fresco which includes a self-portrait by the famous Italian Renaissance artist, Michelangelo. The mural is one of two wall murals restored in the Vatican's Pauline Chapel in a major project which cost 4.5 million dollars.

The two large frescoes were painted by Michelangelo in the chapel from 1542 to 1549 and depict the Christian conversion of the apostle Paul and the crucifixion of St Peter.

Michelangelo's self-portrait was discovered by head of Vatican restorations, Maurizio De Luca.

"It is an extraordinary and moving discovery," said De Luca. "What's extraordinary is the 'new' old Michelangelo emerged in the final stage of restoration because after the Pauline Chapel he ended his life as a painter and dedicated himself only to sculpture and architecture."

The recently completed restoration to clean and repair the frescoes began in 2004 and was funded by Vatican museum arts patrons.

Michelangelo's self-portrait is included in the Crucifixion of St Peter, a dramatic scene in which he is depicted on horse back in the fresco wearing a bright blue turban.

It is not the first time the renowned Italian master included his portrait in one of his works.

One of his most famous self-portraits is included in his depiction of the Last Judgment on the wall of the Sistine Chapel.

Michelangelo began work on the Pauline Chapel murals in 1542 after he had finished the work in the Sistine Chapel.

He completed his contribution to the Pauline Chapel at the age of 75.

The newly restored chapel is in the Apostolic Palace used by the pope and is not open to the public.

Pope Benedict XVI will officially inaugurate the restored chapel with an evening prayer service on 4 July.

Vatican arts patrons from the United States, England and Ireland are expected to attend the ceremony.