St Peter's Basilica

St Peter’s Basilica plans digital overhaul for 400th anniversary

St Peter’s Basilica will mark the 400th anniversary of its dedication this November with new digital tools, expanded visitor services and a bespoke typeface inspired by Michelangelo’s handwriting. The Vatican unveiled the plans on Monday ahead of the anniversary celebrations scheduled for 18th November.

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Girolamo Benivieni by ridolfo ghirandaio cropped National Gallery UK

On this day: birth of poet Girolamo Benivieni

Girolamo Benivieni, the Florentine poet and humanist whose work helped transmit Platonic philosophy into Renaissance literature, was born on 6th February 1453 in Florence. Closely associated with some of the most influential thinkers of his time, Benivieni occupied a rare position at the crossroads of classical philosophy, Renaissance humanism and religious reform.

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O' sole mio author Giovanni Capurro

On This Day: birth of poet Giovanni Capurro

5 February 1859 marks the birth of Giovanni Capurro, a Neapolitan poet, lyricist and journalist whose work would shape one of Italy’s most enduring musical legacies. Born in the city’s Montecalvario district, Capurro grew up in a cultured household; his father was a professor of languages. Although initially guided toward technical studies, he soon embraced […]

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