Italian News Highlights

*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*

Italian News from Vicenza - February 3, 2026

• Prefect extends red zone to May as daily checks continue
• Vicenza fire brigade welcomes new provincial commander
• From Ghana to Vicenza: training project feeds industry's labor needs
• University degrees: Vicenza among Veneto's lowest performers
• Vicenza hit poker away: 4-0 win at Pro Patria
• Vicenza to be Italy's capital of kindness
• Vicenza Antiques Market returns with carnival edition this Sunday
• Caldogno Carnival, masked float parade on Feb. 7
• Monte Berico, too much speed: residents call for action
• February to be a turbulent month for Italy's transport sector
• Bishop Nonis' lifelong love of art celebrated in new exhibit
• Sovizzo, a gentle escape through churches, villas, and fountains
• Trevi fountain introduces paid entry for tourists
• Vicenza's Carnival lights up with parades and family fun
• Vicenza warms up for Valentine's Day with artisan market Feb. 7

Prefect extends red zone to May as daily checks continue - February 3, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The red zone around Vicenza's station, Campo Marzo, and the Quadrilatero has been extended until the end of May due to persistent safety concerns. From July 2025 to January 2026, authorities checked 17,774 people-about 83 per day-and issued 98 removal orders, roughly one every two days, based on behavior rather than nationality. Most removals involved property crimes, assaults, drug activity, or Daspo (urban ban) violations. During the fall-winter period alone, 10,160 people were checked, with 43 removals. The prefecture maintains that constant monitoring remains necessary, keeping the existing perimeter and rules unchanged. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza fire brigade welcomes new provincial commander - February 3, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Vicenza fire brigade has a new commander as Mirko Mattiacci succeeds Giuseppe Costa, who concludes his term as regent. Mattiacci, 52, arrives from the Macerata command and brings nearly three decades of experience. Since beginning his career in 1997, he has served in Pordenone and Macerata, where he was deputy commander from 2011 to 2025. He has taken part in major national rescue operations, including the 1997 Marche-Umbria earthquake, the 2009 L'Aquila quake, and the 2012 Emilia emergency. Costa, in his farewell, emphasized core firefighter values, including love for the uniform and respect for every role. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

From Ghana to Vicenza: training project feeds industry's labor needs - February 3, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Confindustria Vicenza is spotlighting its Ghana training initiative as a concrete response to the province's chronic shortage of skilled industrial workers. More than 100 young Ghanaians are completing professional training in welding, logistics, mechanical work and CNC machining. The pilot phase ended in 2024, with 15 welders already hired in Italy. Demand from Vicenza firms remains strong, and companies are now being asked to help secure housing for incoming trainees. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

University degrees: Vicenza among Veneto's lowest performers - February 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Vicenza area continues to lag behind regional and national averages in the share of university graduates aged 25-49, according to Openpolis analysis of 2022 ISTAT data. Veneto stands at 28 percent-12th in Italy-while Vicenza ranks sixth among the region's seven provinces, ahead only of Rovigo. Padua leads with 32 percent, followed by Verona, Treviso, Venice and Belluno. Vicenza has shown progress, rising from 23.5 to 26 percent since 2018. At the municipal level, Vicenza (34 percent), Bassano (35), Pove del Grappa (36) and Monteviale (35) stand out. Foza and Altissimo trail, though local mayors cite distance, costs and disputed figures. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza hit poker away: 4-0 win at Pro Patria - February 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza LR claimed another dominant win, beating Pro Patria 4-0 in a match never in doubt and extending their lead at the top to 17 points after Lecco's draw with Trento. Stuckler opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Cappelletti doubled the advantage with a header. Two more Stuckler goals were disallowed before halftime. In the second half, Capello made it 3-0 on a rebound, and Morra capitalized on a defensive error for the fourth. Pro Patria's late penalty appeal was denied, sealing Vicenza's emphatic victory. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza to be Italy's capital of kindness - February 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza has officially launched its "Year of Kindness," becoming Italy's Capital of "Let's Build Kindness" for 2026. The ceremony at Villa Cordellina Lombardi brought together 54 mayors, reflecting the province's record-setting national network of municipalities with a formal "kindness delegation." The initiative promotes concrete, everyday acts of kindness involving institutions, schools, associations, businesses and citizens. Project president Luca Nardi and provincial councilor Maria Cristina Franco emphasized action over words, while Andrea Nardin, provincial president, highlighted kindness as strength. The event also unveiled the 2026 calendar of activities and the official logo created by students in Montecchio Maggiore. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza Antiques Market returns with carnival edition this Sunday - February 2, VicenzaToday

Vicenza's monthly antiques market will return with a special Carnival edition on Feb. 8, offering vintage lovers and collectors an expanded showcase throughout the historic center. The event, typically held on the second Sunday of each month, will feature exhibitors from across Italy presenting rare pieces, retro items and unique collectibles. Visitors can explore a route winding through Piazza dei Signori; Contrà Garibaldi; Piazza Duomo; Piazza Castello; Piazzale De Gasperi and Viale Roma. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Caldogno Carnival, masked float parade on Feb. 7 - February 2, VicenzaToday

Caldogno celebrates Carnival 2026 with a lively masked float parade and activities for all ages. The event begins Saturday, Feb. 7 at 2:30 p.m., with colorful floats departing from Via Dante, Piazza Bruno Viola and looping through Via Risorgimento, Via Zanella and Via Torino before returning to the square. Prizes will be awarded for the best float and children's masks, with registration at the Pro Loco stand. Music, a presenter and food stands offering fritters, chips and drinks will fill the afternoon. The event will be cancelled in case of inclement weather. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Monte Berico, speed out of control: residents call for action - February 1, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A serious crash on Viale Dante in Monte Berico left a car destroyed and four young people injured Jan. 29, reigniting residents' demands for action against excessive speeding. Initial police findings indicate the driver lost control, causing the vehicle to swerve and overturn in the middle of the road. Although the injuries were less severe than feared, locals say the area has become increasingly dangerous and accuse the city of ignoring repeated warnings. Neighborhood representatives call for speed displays, cameras, signage and police presence. City Council member Nicolò Naclerio denounces ongoing inaction, arguing that authorities must intervene before a fatal accident occurs (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

February to be a turbulent month for Italy's transport sector - February 1, Tgcom

Italy faces major travel disruptions in February as nationwide strikes hit maritime, air and rail services. A 24-hour walkout in the maritime and port sector is set for Feb. 6, followed by a full day strike on Feb. 16 involving Ita Airways staff, Vueling flight attendants and ground crews at Milan's Linate and Malpensa airports. Guaranteed time slots remain in place. From 9 p.m. on Feb. 27 to 8:59 p.m. on Feb. 28, rail workers at Ferrovie dello Stato will strike, affecting regional, Intercity and high-speed trains. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Bishop Nonis' lifelong love of art celebrated in new exhibit - February 1, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A new exhibition at the Museo Diocesano of Vicenza highlights Bishop Pietro Nonis' deep passion for art and cultural preservation. The show, "Pietro Nonis: Man of Faith and Art," presents objects from his vast collections, reflecting interests ranging from Latin American textiles to African artworks, fossils, ship models and sacred items. The exhibit runs through April 12 and features students serving as cultural guides. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Sovizzo, a gentle escape through churches, villas and fountains - February 1, il Giornale di Vicenza

A 12-kilometer circular walk in Sovizzo leads through quiet countryside, ancient churches, villas and historic fountains. The path winds past landmarks including the Balabardo Bridge, Fontana Calda and the Lavei Fountain, with views over valleys and woods. It continues across the Sarolo plateaus and the village of Vigo, an area rich in Romanesque and Renaissance features. The return route passes through the villages of Vigo and Sovizzo Colle, offering views of nearby castles before looping back to the starting point. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)

Trevi fountain introduces paid entry for tourists - February 1, www.ilsole24ore.com

Rome has launched a historic change: starting Feb. 2, access to the inner perimeter of the Trevi Fountain now requires a €2 ticket purchased online. The fee applies only to tourists. Rome residents, metropolitan-area residents, people with disabilities and their companions, children under six, and licensed tour guides are exempt. Paid hours run Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and weekends from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Outside these times, viewing remains free. The measure follows a yearlong trial aimed at reducing overcrowding and protecting the monument. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Vicenza's Carnival lights up with parades and family fun - January 29, VicenzaToday

Vicenza's 2026 Carnival returns with two lively weekends of music, performances and family activities across the historic center. The first event takes place Feb. 7 along Viale Mazzini, where six giant lighted floats (some reaching 12 meters high) will parade with hundreds of performers, biodegradable confetti and live '90s dance, funk and jazz music. A Dinomania Italia dinosaur troupe will join the festivities. A second celebration follows Feb. 14 in Piazza dei Signori, featuring entertainers, magicians, face painting and street artists for children and adults. In case of rain, the Feb. 7 event will be postponed to Feb. 28, while the Feb. 14 event will be postponed to Feb. 21. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Vicenza warms up for Valentine's Day with artisan market Feb. 7 - January 26, VicenzaToday

Vicenza is warming up for the year's most romantic celebration with "Aspettando San Valentino," an open-air showcase of handmade artistry set for Feb. 7 in Piazza dei Signori. The event transforms the historic square into a creative hub where selected artisans present jewelry, leather goods, home décor and original artworks, one-of-a-kind gifts crafted with passion and skill. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Recent Italian News highlights

Rising theft emergency hits homes, cars, and valuables - January 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Home burglaries are surging again in the Vicenza area, breaking the usual pattern that saw incidents drop after Christmas. Since early 2026, reports have been continuous, especially in the western province and city outskirts. Organized gangs are targeting homes when residents are away, with suspicious individuals scouting properties and fleeing when noticed. Chiampo Valley has seen several attempts, including one successful theft of valuable costume jewelry and a stolen vehicle in Zermeghedo. Multiple towns-Grumolo delle Abbadesse, Camisano, Longare and Sovizzo-report similar concerns. Local mayors describe coordinated criminal activity, prompting increased patrols, neighborhood alert groups, and expanded video-surveillance systems, though fear among residents remains high. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Contrà Muscheria: shuttered shops in the shadow of the Basilica - January 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Contrà Muschieria, one of Vicenza's shortest streets, has become a symbol of the historic center's struggles. Nearly half its storefronts are shuttered, with a sixth closure expected as Momonì prepares to leave by February. Remaining family-run shops report declining sales, worsened by COVID's aftermath, high rents, and limited parking that discourages customers. While a new business is set to open at number 22, each new arrival is offset by another departure. Shopkeepers describe a once-busy connector between Contrà Garibaldi and Piazza dei Signori now marked by dark windows, reflecting a city center fighting to stay alive. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Enego hosts Olympic training camp for Italy's cross-country team - January 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Asiago Plateau regains prominence in cross-country skiing as the Italian national team chooses the Enego-Marcesina Center for an official training camp, a welcome boost after the area was excluded from the Olympic circuit. From now until Feb. 5, athletes will test the newly approved 2.5 and 3.3 km tracks while staying at Casa Gaia and the Monte Lisser refuge. The course will be inaugurated on Feb. 7, marking a return to high-level competition after 15 years. The center, revitalized by Merck Wisen Outdoor, offers full services and aims to promote quality sport and local tourism. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Longare defies national decline as new businesses open - January 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Longare is moving against the national tide of commercial closures, with new businesses opening across the town and its hamlets. Mayor Matteo Zennaro called the trend a sign of resilience, crediting the revival to improved quality of life and 40 million euros invested over six years in services and infrastructure, which have also driven population growth. In recent months, a rotisserie; bar; real-estate agency; technical studio; hair salon; beauty center and energy-consulting office have opened, bringing the total to 73 active businesses, with all new ventures run by young entrepreneurs. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

On-demand night buses surge past 18,800 passengers in 2025 - January 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Evening on-demand buses continue to gain momentum, surpassing 18,848 passengers in 2025, a 52 percent increase from the previous year. Operating from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and into the early morning on weekends, the system logged 5,062 trips and more than 140,000 kilometers traveled, both up 11 percent. Passengers can choose from 300 stops and book through the ChiamaBus App, which handles nearly all reservations. Tickets cost €3, with a €24-monthly pass available. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

San Bortolo 2 launches new state-of-the-art laboratory - January 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The new ULSS Berica 8 out-patient laboratory will open on Monday, Feb. 2 at San Bortolo 2 on Via Cappellari, bringing one of northern Italy's most advanced diagnostic facilities into full operation. For Vicenza residents long used to the former, ancient cloister-style setting, the transition represents a significant upgrade in comfort, efficiency, and overall organization. The renovated former seminary also houses Suem 118, Sisp, Cot, several specialist outpatient clinics and the new 24/7 hotline 116117 serving much of the Veneto. The center features expanded spaces, 12 reception desks, eight private draw rooms, 50 parking spaces, and a new nearby bus stop to enhance accessibility. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Gold fever in Vicenza: residents cash in anything, even teeth - January 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza is witnessing an unprecedented rush to sell gold as prices hover around 140 euros per gram, a level not seen in years. Driven by geopolitical tensions and record valuations, residents are bringing everything from heirloom jewelry to religious items-and even gold teeth-to local Compro Oro shops. Dealers report a sharp rise in business as people prioritize profit and security, preferring to cash in rather than keep valuables at home. Some sellers earn tens of thousands of euros from inherited pieces. Most items are melted down by metal dealers, while silver is accepted only when heavy enough to be worthwhile. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza honors victims of Holocaust on Remembrance Day - January 28, Corriere Veneto

On Remembrance Day in Vicenza, local authorities and citizens gathered to honor victims of Nazi deportations. Prefect Filippo Romano stressed the need to recognize every person's humanity beyond ideology. At the Olympic Theatre, medals of honor were awarded to Italian citizens deported and interned in Nazi camps. Relatives shared emotional testimonies of suffering, hunger and trauma, including a daughter who recalled how her father survived imprisonment by secretly saving potato peels for himself and five others. The day featured readings and the laying of roses and stumbling stones. Mayor Giacomo Possamai highlighted remembrance as both a historical duty and an educational responsibility. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza mayor to open Palladio exhibition in Beijing - January 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A major exhibition dedicated to architect Andrea Palladio, titled "Geometry, Harmony and Life," will open on Feb. 3 at the National Museum of China in Beijing. The event-the first Palladio exhibition ever held in Asia-is organized by the Italian Embassy, the Palladio International Centre, and the Institute of the Italian Encyclopedia Treccani. Vicenza Mayor Giacomo Possamai is expected to attend. The exhibition will showcase models of Palladio's villas, along with historical maps and paintings. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)

Pozzoleone readies for ancient San Valentino Fair - January 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Ancient San Valentino Fair returns to Pozzoleone, bringing two weeks of events that draw around 60,000 visitors to a town of just 3,000 residents. Now in its 509th edition and the second largest fair in the Vicenza province, it was presented during a press conference highlighting its spirit of hospitality and community pride. The inauguration will take place on Sunday, Feb. 8, with authorities attending and a majorette parade accompanied by the Bovo Band. Running Feb. 1-15, the program includes cultural events, youth activities, guest speakers Alberto Pellai and Patrizio Roversi, social initiatives, music, fashion and the "Valentine's Day by Bike" tour. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Ramp to Pasubio spur road closed to curb illegal U-turns - January 27, VicenzaToday

The city of Vicenza will close the access ramp from Viale del Sole to the Albera spur started Jan. 29 at the request of the Prefecture. The measure aims to stop dangerous illegal U-turns that continue along the SP46 Pasubio variant despite clear signage. Drivers heading toward the fairgrounds or highway must now use the roundabout before entering the spur toward Costabissara, Thiene and Schio. Mobility official Cristiano Spiller said the city will cover the cost of safety signage, noting that reckless behavior by some motorists endangers everyone. The experimental closure may slow traffic entering the roundabout. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Lonigo, climb into history as medieval tower opens to visitors - January 26, VicenzaToday

Lonigo's medieval Torrione, the last standing tower of the town's ancient castle, is open for guided visits every Saturday at 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. The 34-meter structure rewards those who tackle its 150 steps with sweeping views of the city and the Berici Hills. Entry costs €2, with free admission for children under 12. Visitors can join the tour by checking in at the IAT office in Piazza Garibaldi. Dating back to at least 976, the tower showcases layered construction styles and remains the most striking remnant of a fortress largely dismantled in the 19th century. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Malo Carnival kicks off with the traditional mask Ciaci - January 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Malo Carnival returns to brighten the city streets for its 102nd edition, coordinated directly by the municipality. Alongside the traditional floats, the 2026 edition stands out for its packed calendar of collateral events, including concerts, cabaret and shows designed to engage all generations. For the first time, the Malo Carnival is a project shared with the surrounding communities, enhancing the contribution of all the associations and volunteers. The Carnival that kicks off with the Children's Carnival Jan. 31, starting at 2:30 p.m., will also feature two Sunday parades on Feb. 8, when the floats will be accompanied by a band and majorettes, numerous masked groups and dance associations, and on Feb. 15; the final parade will be on Martedi Grasso, Fat Tuesday, with the farewell of a traditional mask Ciaci at the youth center. Throughout the parades, there will also be attractions such as a horse show, artists, costumed groups and dance. (Summary by Laura Kreider)

Soldiers assaulted, robbed by youth gang on Viale della Pace - January 27, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Two 25-year-old U.S. Soldiers stationed in Vicenza were attacked and robbed early Saturday, Jan. 24, on Viale della Pace by a group of five youths who may have been minors, according to investigators. The assailants surrounded the Soldiers around 4 a.m., demanding money, jewelry and phones. When the Soldiers refused, the group beat them and stole a gold necklace and a wristwatch. A nearby witness alerted authorities, prompting the attackers to flee before police arrived. Carabinieri took the Soldiers to San Bortolo Hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries and released. Investigators are reviewing witness accounts and checking surveillance footage. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Giardino Salvi wins grant, advancing major restoration effort - January 24, VicenzaToday

Giardino Salvi in Vicenza has taken a major step toward its restoration after winning the FAI-Intesa Sanpaolo "Places of the Heart" grant, reserved for sites with at least 20,000 votes. Only two locations in the Veneto earned this recognition, including Giardino Salvi and the Castello di Alboino in Feltre. The city's project includes replacing the outdated steel footbridge over the Seriola canal, improving access from Piazzale Giusti, and enhancing views of the restored Loggia Longhena. Local officials and FAI leaders praised the civic effort that secured 20,196 votes. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Greater Vicenza's 13 towns unite to streamline services - January 24, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The Greater Vicenza coordination group, which unites 13 municipalities around the city, is working to streamline services and tackle shared challenges. As many small towns confront demographic decline and manpower shortage, the group offers a proactive alternative to full municipal mergers by coordinating key functions such as roads, transport, water services, cemeteries and public lighting. Backed by Vicenza Mayor Giacomo Possamai, the initiative seeks to cut duplication and improve efficiency, "saving 13 tenders each time," noted Monteviale Mayor Claudio Cegalin, while laying the groundwork for a more integrated and resilient territorial system. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

San Pio X neighborhood to gain new multi-sport playground - January 23, Corriere Veneto

Vicenza will transform an unused concrete area in the San Pio X neighborhood-between Via Giuriato, Viale Giorgione and Via Calvi-into a new multipurpose sports playground funded by the national Sport Illumina program. With €320,000 from the Ministry of Sport and Youth, the space will host parkour, calisthenics, volleyball and community events, becoming a freely accessible, barrier-free hub for residents. City officials highlight the project's value for social inclusion and urban renewal, while Sport e Salute spa will oversee construction and maintenance. Murals and design upgrades will give San Pio X a renewed identity and a vibrant gathering place. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Badgers threaten to stall high-speed rail work in Ferrovieri - January 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Activists and wildlife inspectors are raising concerns after several badger dens were identified in Bosco Lanerossi, a wooded area in northwest Vicenza's Ferrovieri district spared from earlier high-speed rail plans. Recent surveys found at least three potential dens near the area where crews are preparing to extend Via dell'Arsenale. Badgers are protected in Italy and may be sheltering inside deep, multigenerational tunnel networks during winter. Further checks are needed to confirm whether the animals remain and whether heavy machinery could collapse the chambers. Project managers may need to relocate the badgers or redesign parts of the work zone to safeguard the habitat. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Venice, plastic confetti ban sparks environmental push - January 23, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Venice has banned plastic confetti and streamers across the city, a measure introduced ahead of Carnival but valid for all celebrations. The move follows concerns raised in Vicenza by Plastic Free, which found large amounts of plastic confetti near the university. The group warns that these tiny non-biodegradable fragments disperse quickly, pollute soil and waterways and are often ingested by animals, with serious ecological consequences. Similarly, Vicenza environment councilor Sara Baldinato plans to update local regulations to include confetti, firecrackers and plastic balloons, promoting biodegradable alternatives already adopted in other municipalities. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Olympic torch returns to Vicenza after 20 years, draws huge crowds - January 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza drew an estimated 50,000 spectators as the Olympic torch returned to the city after two decades, transforming the route from Stanga to Piazza dei Signori into a continuous celebration. The 44th stage of the relay moved ahead of schedule due to overwhelming public enthusiasm. A strong American presence energized the parade as hundreds of U.S. service members and families gathered outside Caserma Ederle, cheering the torchbearers and chanting "USA." The final stretch featured prominent Italian figures, including Olympic champions Gabriella Dorio and Gelindo Bordin, before mountaineer Mario Vielmo lit the cauldron in a packed Piazza dei Signori. The moment capped a memorable evening of civic pride and shared excitement. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Debba link road plan moves to next approval phase - January 21, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A new 8.5-million-euro connector road between the future Ponte di Debba and the A4 Vicenza Est interchange has been identified as the preferred option in a feasibility study presented by provincial and city officials. The plan calls for a new roadway running partly alongside Strada Pelosa before branching toward the highway, a solution deemed the best balance of cost, environmental impact and traffic efficiency. Officials said the chosen layout would reduce pressure on residential areas, shift through-traffic away from Strada Pelosa and improve access to the industrial zone. Plans also include new bike-pedestrian paths and environmental mitigation measures. The approval process will continue this spring, with the goal of completing authorization by summer. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Northern lights stun viewers across Vicenza skies - January 20, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A rare aurora borealis lit up the skies over Vicenza on the late night of Jan. 19, offering an unexpected display usually confined to far northern latitudes. The phenomenon, visible from mountain and foothill areas including Monte Grappa, began around 10 p.m. with white streaks moving across a red sky before shifting into vivid green and fading just after 11. Scientists say an intense solar storm pushed the aurora unusually far south. The green and red colors were produced by solar particles interacting with oxygen at different altitudes, and isolated green patches suggest a rare proton aurora. Asiago Observatory called it the strongest event recorded there since 2023. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Poverelle nuns leave Santa Lucia after 150 years of service - January 20, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Contrà Santa Lucia is saying goodbye to the Poverelle sisters after 150 years of service in Vicenza, as the remaining nuns relocate to the Palazzolo Institute in Santa Chiara due to declining numbers and rising building costs. Their Santa Lucia home-once a hub for charitable work and community support-hosted nursery classes, orphans, and later a retirement residence for elderly sisters. The property is being cleared and put up for sale, marking the end of a long chapter remembered fondly by residents like 97-year-old Amelia Prandina, who recalls the sisters' deep ties to neighborhood life. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza Police lost 163 officers in 18 years - January 15, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza's police force has shrunk dramatically, losing 163 officers in 18 years, dropping from 499 to 336. Union reps warn the decline is straining public safety. The questura now has 186 officers and 14 technical staff. Bassano's commissariat, the Vicenza traffic police, Schio's detachment and the railway police have all seen similar reductions. The immigration office is also at risk, with seven temporary workers finishing their contracts and no clarity on replacements. A study highlights an uneven national distribution of police forces, penalizing northern regions like the Veneto. Low pay adjustments tied to cost of living push many officers to prefer southern postings, contributing to shortages and high turnover in the North. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

City invests €20 million to expand district heating network - January 15, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza is moving forward with a €20 million upgrade of its district heating plant on Viale Cricoli and an expansion of the network toward the eastern neighborhoods. The project aims to extend service to areas including Parco Città, Viale Fiume and Sant' Andrea, while fully connecting San Bortolo Hospital. Backed by €3 million in regional funding, Magis plans to add 2.25 kilometers of pipeline by 2028, increasing users by nearly 17 percent. The long-term goal is to cover half the city by 2034, cutting carbon emissions through geothermal energy, high-efficiency cogeneration and recovered industrial heat. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Vicenza unveils three-year art exhibit plan at the Basilica - January 15, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Major exhibitions will return to the Basilica Palladiana from fall 2026 to 2028 as part of a unified, three-year cultural project focused on Germany, France and Spain. Presented at the Culture Forum in Palazzo Trissino, the initiative aims to create a European-scale trilogy that extends beyond the exhibitions themselves, generating citywide events, discussions and partnerships. Each edition-likely running from November to May-will serve as a catalyst for cultural, economic, and community activities across Vicenza. The city is calling on local associations to participate actively. The final framework will be confirmed in the coming weeks, with an official announcement expected before spring. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Local butter cookies take flight with Ita Airways - January 15, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Local butter canestrelli are now served on Ita Airways' domestic flights, marking a new milestone for the Costabissara-based bakery. The airline selected "Loison" after a competitive bid for a single-serve cookie that met strict onboard service standards. The company produced millions of portions during a six-month test. The project pushed Loison to expand cookie production, which now accounts for more than eight percent of revenue as the firm closed 2025 with a turnover of about €14 million. Known worldwide for its panettone, Loison continues to invest in digital innovation and export growth, serving more than 70 direct markets. And now, its cookies are literally taking flight. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

ZTL "trap" in Vicenza: 2,400 fines for U.S. personnel and how to avoid them - January 11, Il Giornale di Vicenza

More than 2,400 fines were issued in 2025 for unauthorized entry into Vicenza's Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL), underscoring a recurring challenge for U.S. military and civilian personnel. Many drivers unintentionally enter restricted areas due to unfamiliar signage and navigation apps that fail to flag electronic gates. In a video message, Lt. Col. Jonathan Kuhn highlighted the thousands of fines accumulated by community members for ZTL and bus-lane violations. To reduce incidents, the garrison is focusing on education through initiatives like "Coffee with the Cops" and updated online guidance. Key advice includes not relying solely on GPS, watching illuminated ZTL signs and ensuring permits are valid. The goal is to prevent costly mistakes and improve coexistence with the city. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

New bridge obscures historic skyline: "A suburban scar," critics say - January 11, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Local association Italia Nostra Vicenza criticizes the new cycle-pedestrian walkway over the Bacchiglione, calling it a "wound to the gaze" that disrupts the historic view of Ponte degli Angeli and Palazzo Angaran. The association argues the modern structure is out of place in a UNESCO-listed city center and contrasts sharply with the recently restored 1911 iron bridge in Viale Giuriolo, praised for respecting its original character. Italia Nostra considers the project an unnecessary scar on Vicenza's landscape and questions its €800,000 cost, noting an existing historic walkway could have been adapted. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

City installs three more cameras, server capacity now maxed out - January 10, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza has added three new surveillance cameras in Viale San Lazzaro, bringing the citywide total to 130. More installations are planned for 2026, but the expanding network is pushing the city's server and software to their limits, requiring an IT upgrade. Mayor Giacomo Possamai emphasized the need to extend video surveillance beyond the historic center into neighborhoods, though dedicated fiber-optic lines make expansion costly. Recent installations in San Pio X and San Lazzaro were funded with €95,000 in ministerial support. All cameras feed into a system shared with local and national law-enforcement agencies. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

City tests plastic-bottle compactor with future rewards plan - January 8, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A new plastic-bottle compactor has been installed in San Pio X on Via Giuriato, near the public water station. The machine, owned by the city rather than private retailers, allows residents to recycle plastic bottles and caps more efficiently. It currently offers no rewards, but the city plans to introduce incentives, and officials are in talks to involve local shops in a discount system. The project has been well received on social media and could expand to other neighborhoods if funding allows. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

State Police expand YouPol app to trains to boost safety - December 2, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The State Police announced Dec. 1 that the YouPol app now extends to train passengers and stations, offering a fast, geolocated reporting system for risky situations, suspicious behavior, or critical issues. Users can send photos, videos, or short messages directly to Railway Police and police headquarters for immediate assessment and intervention. Since December 2024, YouPol has logged 46,877 general requests, 24,962 drug reports, 3,357 domestic violence cases and 3,648 bullying reports, mostly from northern and southern cities. Main users are aged 51-60 (100,000), followed by 18-30 (20,000) and minors (5,000). With 5,650 monthly anonymous reports, YouPol strengthens prevention and citizen-police collaboration. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Viale Roma transformation will link station and historic center - November 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Viale Roma is being transformed into a pedestrian lane, with work scheduled to finish by February 2026. The project will create a wide walkway between the train station and Porta Castello, highlighted by a central white stone strip aligned with Giardino Salvi. Road space has been narrowed to seven meters for two lanes, while pedestrian areas will expand to nearly 14 meters. The redesign aims to connect the historic center with the station and provide space for markets and events. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

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