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Check FAQAbout Philip
Philip Willan is a freelance journalist and author who has worked in Italy for more than 30 years. He has specialised in cold war intrigues and parapolitics. As well as reporting for electronic media, Philip writes for the Times of London and, on information technology, for IDG News Service.
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Portfolio
Italian ex-minister’s head wound inflicted by spurned lover, show claims
An investigative TV program revealed a photograph of a head wound on former Italian culture minister Gennaro Sangiuliano, allegedly inflicted by his lover Maria Rosaria Boccia during a violent breakup. The wound, reportedly taken to support Sangiuliano's legal complaint, was shown by RAI TV's 'Report' and first reported by Dagospia. Boccia's social media posts led to Sangiuliano's resignation. The prime minister's office denied prior knowledge of the program's allegations.
Italian police arrest four after president’s email ‘hacked’
Italian police have arrested four individuals in connection with a hacking operation that allegedly involved bribing police officers and planting spy software to access sensitive information. The operation, led by a detective agency, targeted high-profile individuals and organizations, including heirs to the Luxottica fortune, former politicians, and business leaders. The group is accused of using extortion and blackmail to influence and damage reputations. The investigation has revealed a widespread network of electronic snooping, with the suspects claiming significant control over Italian affairs.
Meloni says ‘pressure groups’ are behind bank snooping scandal
Giorgia Meloni, leader of the Brothers of Italy party, claims that pressure groups are behind a bank snooping scandal targeting right-wing politicians. Giovanni Donzelli and Matteo Piantedosi, both political figures, describe the scandal as an attack on democracy. Coviello, accused of violating privacy laws, claims his actions were driven by curiosity and psychological compulsion. The scandal involves allegations of misuse of information from the National Antimafia Prosecutor’s Office, reinforcing Meloni's perception of being under siege.
Pope: It’s ugly when women want to play the man
Pope Francis faced criticism during his visit to Belgium for his comments on gender roles, which were deemed deterministic and reductive by Louvain University. The Pope's traditionalist stance on women's roles contrasts with his progressive reforms in other areas, such as allowing nuns to vote at the synod. His visit also addressed the clerical sex abuse scandal, with Belgian leaders urging transparency from the church. The Pope emphasized the need for accountability and openness regarding abuse cases.
Poetic justice: suspected thief caught reading book on The Iliad
A suspected thief named Liquori was caught reading a book on The Iliad in an apartment he allegedly intended to burglarize. The 71-year-old owner of the flat discovered him and called the police, leading to Liquori's arrest. Liquori claimed he accidentally ended up in the apartment and started reading the book. Police found him with a bag of new clothes and charged him with receipt of stolen property and attempted burglary. The book's author, Nucci, expressed delight at gaining a new reader and humorously noted the connection to Hermes, the protector of literature and thieves.
Don’t pack lunch — buy it here to save our Alps, tourists told
Bussone, representing mountain communities, urges tourists to invest in the local mountain economy by purchasing goods locally to ensure the survival of these areas. He emphasizes that maintaining the landscape and infrastructure has significant costs and that visitors should contribute to these expenses. Various measures, such as charging for parking and access, are being implemented to address the financial strain. Bussone calls for a cultural shift and political support, including long-promised tax breaks, to sustain the mountain regions.
British man caught carving initials on ancient wall in Pompeii
Incidents of vandalism at historical sites in Italy, including a British man caught carving initials on a wall in Pompeii, highlight ongoing challenges in protecting cultural heritage. Italian authorities have introduced tougher penalties for defacing monuments, with fines now ranging from €40,000 to €60,000. Previous incidents include a Kazakh tourist engraving his name and an Australian riding a moped in Pompeii. Not all graffiti is condemned, as some ancient drawings provide valuable historical insights.
Italian cyclists honour Marco Polo with 6,400-mile bike ride to Beijing
Italian cyclists from a historic Venice cycling club embarked on a 6,400-mile journey to Beijing to honor Marco Polo. They chose bicycles to mirror the slow travel methods of Polo's time. The journey highlighted the cultural significance of Marco Polo in China, where he is highly regarded. The cyclists documented their trip through social media, noting challenges like the Turpan Depression's extreme heat and cultural observations such as China's innovative water-saving methods. Their experiences fostered a sense of optimism and cultural appreciation.
Head Vatican prosecutor investigated over mafia links
The head Vatican prosecutor, Pignatone, is under investigation for alleged mafia links, specifically for failing to follow up on evidence of corrupt ties between Raul Gardini and mafia bosses in Sicily. Pignatone, who has a reputation for fighting organized crime, denied the charges and invoked his right to silence. The investigation also involves former colleagues Gioacchino Natoli and Stefano Screpanti. The case has raised concerns about possible collusion between state organs and the mafia, with significant implications for the anti-mafia efforts in Italy.
From Tunis to the Tiber, the new generation of gladiators
The Colosseum in Rome collaborates with historical re-enactors to stage realistic gladiatorial combat shows in ancient amphitheatres from Tunis to the Tiber. The initiative aims to disseminate accurate knowledge of ancient gladiatorial games, with Alfonsina Russo, director of the Colosseum archaeological park, emphasizing the importance of historical accuracy. The project draws inspiration from the popular film Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe.
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