Rome - A touch of Hollywood wafted through the Roman Capitol on Thursday when Mayor Roberto Gualtieri received a true icon of film history. Robert De Niro was honored with the Lupa Capitolina, the city's highest award. Also present at the ceremony was a young jury from the „Alice nella Città“ section, made up of ten young people from Roman schools who symbolized the intergenerational contract in cinema.
Gualtieri praised De Niro as an extraordinary artist whose versatility has set a precedent in contemporary cinema. He is an absolute protagonist who has written film history and enchanted audiences with unforgettable performances. According to the mayor, the presentation of the Capitoline She-Wolf was the city's way of saying thank you to a man for whom Rome would always be a „second home“.
A city as a „living work of art“
For the 81-year-old Oscar winner, the honor was clearly more than just another award in his extensive collection. He thanked the mayor and the city for this „incredible honor“. Rome is more than just a city, he said, it is a „living work of art“ in which every stone and every street tells a story.
De Niro's words about his personal connection to the country of his ancestors were particularly touching. Due to his Italian roots, this recognition has a deep, personal meaning for him. He has always felt a close connection to Italy, its people, their passion and respect for craftsmanship and creativity - qualities that inspire artists worldwide. He accepts the award with great gratitude, also on behalf of all those who are touched by the spirit of Rome.
