Painting of the Revolution of 1799 with blue-yellow-red tricolours, wih Eleonora Fonseca Pimentel.

On this day in history: Eleonora Fonseca Pimentel, poet and revolutionary, hanged

Eleonora Fonseca Pimentel, born in Rome in 1752, was an exceptional figure in the history of Italy, whose life intertwined poetry, intellectual rigour, and revolutionary fervour. As one of the most prominent women of her time, she played a crucial role in the short-lived Neapolitan Republic of 1799. She was hanged on 20th August, 1799.

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Vincenzo Coronelli and one of his maps

One this day in history: cartographer Vincenzo Coronelli born

Vincenzo Coronelli, an Italian Franciscan friar born on 16th August 1650 in Venice, is widely regarded as one of the most significant and innovative globe makers in history. His work in cartography and globe highlights his profound influence on the fields of geography, navigation, and visual culture.

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Jacopo Peri and a later Dafne programme

On this day in history: Opera composer Jacopo Peri dies

Jacopo Peri, who died on 12th August 1633, was a seminal figure in the history of Western music. Often referred to as the “father of opera,” Peri’s work laid the foundation for an entirely new genre of music, blending dramatic narrative with musical expression. His most famous contribution, Dafne, is widely recognised as the first […]

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Pope Alexander VI

On this day in history: Rodrigo de Borja becomes Pope Alexander VI

Rodrigo de Borja became Pope Alexander VI on 11st August 1492. He remains one of the most infamous figures in the history of the Catholic Church. His papacy, from 1492 to 1503, was marked by scandals, political intrigue, and accusations of corruption, yet he also played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of […]

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