On his 75th birthday, acclaimed actor Carlo Verdone took on a unique role, becoming Rome’s Mayor for a Day. This symbolic gesture, initiated by Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, celebrated Verdone’s longstanding connection to his city. His day began with the local police band performing the iconic soundtrack from his film “Un sacco bello,” composed by Ennio Morricone, as he ascended the steps of the Campidoglio.
Emotional Day for Carlo Verdone
As he donned the tricolor sash, Verdone exclaimed, “Now I take command.” This event echoed a prior occasion 25 years ago when fellow actor Alberto Sordi held the same honorary title under then-Mayor Francesco Rutelli. Verdone reflected on this connection, sharing fond memories of Sordi and how their paths crossed at Cinecittà.
Throughout the day, Verdone expressed his gratitude for his upbringing, stating, “If I understand Rome, its poetry and flaws, I owe it to my parents.” In his role as temporary mayor, he initiated critical projects aimed at improving the community. Two significant measures were approved during his brief tenure:
- Establishment of a dentistry and social psychology center in Tor Bella Monaca.
- New initiatives to support local bookstores in Rome.
Exploring Rome’s Neighborhoods
Verdone embarked on a tour of Rome’s peripheral areas, highlighting the need for development beyond the city center. He described these neighborhoods as “laboratories of ideas” and emphasized the importance of addressing inequality. During his visit to Villa Gordiani, he was greeted by a large crowd. He inaugurated a new playground, planted a tree, and took selfies with fans, reminiscing about his own childhood in less developed play areas.
The celebration continued with an event organized for seniors at a community center in La Storta. Attendees enjoyed a feast featuring traditional dishes like lasagna and cacio e pepe, as Verdone humorously noted, “I’ve always been teetotal, but I made a small exception here.”
Final Reflections and Proposals
In the afternoon, he visited the scenic area of Tragliatella. He engaged with local residents and humorously remarked to Mayor Gualtieri about the quality of ongoing construction projects. His day also included a visit to the Teatro Valle, which is set to reopen in 2026.
Concluding his day at the Aula Giulio Cesare, he expressed profound emotions, stating, “Today has been an incredible experience.” He reflected on the evolution of Rome since the 1980s and reiterated the need to build a better future. Verdone’s love for the city is evident in his work and through films such as “Un sacco bello,” which garnered him the trust of the legendary Sergio Leone.
As the day came to an end, Mayor Gualtieri praised Verdone’s dedication to the city and shared exciting proposals that emerged from their discussions, including a book market and revitalizing a closed cinema. The honorary sash was returned, and a heartfelt farewell was exchanged. Verdone concluded, “It was the most beautiful gift I could have received,” leaving a touching note in the guestbook: “Thank you for allowing me to meet so much humanity and poetry in the neighborhoods. It was an unforgettable day.”
