In accordance with the "Regulation for air quality", approved by the Milan City Council last year, fireworks, firecrackers, pyrotechnics and barbecues are banned this New Year's Eve too; the rule also safeguards the sensitivity of pets and city animals

Italy has celebrated its first National Made in Italy Day on the anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci's birth on 15 April 1452; a number of events and exhibitions all over the world showcased creativity and excellence, promoting the value of Italian creations

Republic's President, highest office of the state, "appreciated the work" of a school in Pioltello, small town in the north, that declared closure to allow the many foreign students to celebrate Ramadan's end, sparking criticism from right-wing party Lega

Two and a half years after the decree-law that banned cruise ships from passing through St. Mark's Basin and the Giudecca Canal, discussions are underway in Venice to bring medium-sized ships back to the Maritime Station