Culture
Venice Biennale president defiant as EU pulls €2 million in funding
Pietrangelo Buttafuoco says the Biennale “cannot bow down” after Brussels cut funding in response to the foundation allowing Russia to take part in its 2026 art exhibition. The decision by the Biennale is a breach of sanctions linked to the invasion of Ukraine, says EU.
Life in Italy
Italy passes parental consent law for sex and relationship education
The Italian Senate has given final approval to legislation requiring schools to obtain written parental consent before delivering any sex or relationship education. The vote has divided the country along sharply ideological lines.
Environment
Umbrian plateau becomes a living rainbow
Every summer, the high plains beneath the Sibillini Mountains erupt into a sweep of red, purple, blue and yellow. The plant responsible for the Umbrian spectacle isn’t a flower at all, but the humble lentil.
Heatwave kills off Po Delta’s clams and mussels
Lagoon water temperatures of 32 degrees are starving clams and mussels of oxygen and fuelling algae blooms not seen in a decade. It is resulting in losses of up to 100% in some areas.
WWF Italy marks 60 years of conservation
From a Rome notary’s office in 1966 to over 100 nature reserves today, WWF Italy says its diamond anniversary is a stepping stone rather than a finish line.
