Italy today salutes former Prime Minister, businessman and football club owner Silvio Berlusconi. He will receive a state funeral in the cathedral of his native Milan. It is a day of national mourning in Italy, flags on government buildings are flown at half-mast.
Berlusconi was prime minister for three terms in four cabinets. He was also a member of the Senate until his death on behalf of the ruling Forza Italia party, which he himself founded.
He was also a wealthy businessman. He has managed media companies, including Fininvest, has owned Milan for about thirty years and, since 2018, Monza. According to the Forbes Rich List, he had a fortune of $6.8 billion (€6.3 billion). This made him the third richest Italian after chocolate magnate Giovanni Ferrero and fashion designer Giorgio Armani.
Berlusconi was not undisputed. After a conviction for tax fraud in 2013, he was temporarily barred from holding public office. He was also known for his bunga bunga parties.
On the eve of his funeral, well-wishers and fans have already flocked to his home. There they put flowers, football scarves and political flags. Tens of thousands of people are expected at his funeral, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and President Sergio Mattarella. Berlusconi died on Monday at the age of 86.
Source: BNR
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