Italian Opera Recognized as Global Cultural Treasure
Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, along with top political and cultural figures, gathered at Verona’s ancient Arena amphitheater for a celebration of Italian lyric opera’s recognition by UNESCO. Conductor Riccardo Muti led an orchestra of 170 musicians and over 314 choral singers in a performance of famous Italian opera pieces.
Muti expressed his pride in the recognition, stating, “The great masterpieces are our heritage, which we Italians have given to the world.” The Arena, known for its popular summer opera festival, provided a fitting setting for the milestone celebration.
International opera stars like Jonas Kaufmann and Jessica Pratt joined Italian performers in the event. Despite the bid for recognition being prepared by a previous center-left government, Italy’s far-right-led government has embraced the honor. The gala was attended by Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano and Senate speaker Ignazio La Russa, both from Meloni’s party.
The evening ended on a symbolic note as Muti transitioned from the Italian anthem to Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” highlighting unity amidst political differences. The recognition of Italian opera as a cultural treasure holds significance in the context of ongoing European Parliament elections.