Roman Diocese Want No Part in "The Da Vinci Code" prequel

Filmmakers have been banned from filming the prequel to "The Da Vinci Code" by Rome's diocese who stated that the film "does not conform to our views," reported the Associated Press.

The film crew requested use of the churches of Santa Maria del Popolo and Santa Maria della Vittoria, both located in Rome because of their beautiful and elaborate architecture. Additionally, the churches include paintings by Caravaggio, sculptures Bernini and a chapel designed Raphael.

Monsignor Marco Fibbi, spokesperson for the diocese stated to the Associated Press,"It's a film that treats religious issues in a way that contrasts with common religious sentiment. "We would be helping them create a work that might well be beautiful but that does not conform to our views." "This is a prequel to 'The Da Vinci Code' and it's clear that the theme is similar," Fibbi said.

Despite the diocese's ban from filming the church's interior, law does not prohibit the filming of the church's exterior.

"Angels and Demons" is scheduled for release in May 2009.