Cav. Giorgio Spanu Bestowed with the Insignia of Knight of the Italian Republic
June 2, 2018
Cav. Giorgio Spanu was awarded the Insignia of Knight of the Italian Republic by the Ambassador of Italy to the United States of America, His Excellency Armando Varricchio. The ceremony took place on board the Italian Frigate Alpino, moored at Pier 88 in New York City, during the celebration and anniversary of the foundation of the Republic of Italy on June 2, 2018.
Cav. Giorgio Spanu, Chairman of Casa Italiana Zerilli-Marimò at NYU, Co-Founder of Olnick Spanu Art Program and Magazzino Italian Art, supported by former Prime Minister of Italy, Paolo Gentiloni, received the recognition of Cavaliere Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana by His Excellency Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic. The Honor is awarded for “merit acquired by the nation” in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers. It is the highest ranking award of the Italian Republic and was founded as the senior order of knighthood in 1951 by the President of the Italian Republic, Luigi Einaudi.
Cav. Giorgio Spanu was accompanied by the Co-Founder of the Olnick Spanu Art Program and Magazzino Italian Art, Nancy Olnick, their daughter Stella Olnick Spanu, Vittorio Calabrese, Director of Magazzino Italian Art and Miguel Quismondo, noted Architect of Magazzino Italian Art. In addition, Consul General of Italy in New York, Minister Plenipotentiary Francesco Genuardi and spouse Isabel Achaval, the Deputy Consul Generals Chiara Saulle, Isabella Periotto and Silvia Limoncini, and Giorgio Van Straten, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute in New York and Laura Mattioli Founder of CIMA, Center for Modern Italian Art in New York, were also present at the ceremony.
Cav. Giorgio Spanu presented Commander Davide Da Pozzo, Commanding Officer of the Frigate Alpino, with books and catalogues published by Magazzino Italian Art, including Building Magazzino, a book of photography by Marco Anelli.