National state of emergency has been declared for the next six months after the dramatic increase in migrants arriving from the Mediterranean sea; activists and NGOs denounce consequent lowering of living standards for migrants

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