Olimpia Maidalchini, often referred to as “La Papessa” (The Popess), was one of the most powerful and controversial women of 17th-century Rome. As the sister-in-law and close advisor to Pope Innocent X, she wielded immense influence over the Vatican, navigating politics, wealth, and power in an era when women were rarely seen in positions of authority. Her story is one of ambition, intelligence, and strategic maneuvering, making her one of the most fascinating figures in Roman history.

From Humble Origins to the Heights of Power

Born in 1591 in Viterbo, Olimpia came from a modest noble family. Determined to rise above her circumstances, she married into wealth, first to Paolo Nini and later to Pamphilio Pamphilj, a member of the powerful Pamphilj family. This second marriage would change her life forever, as it connected her to Giovanni Battista Pamphilj, who would later become Pope Innocent X.

When her brother-in-law ascended to the papal throne in 1644, Olimpia quickly became one of the most influential figures in Rome. She was his closest advisor, controlling appointments, financial matters, and even influencing church policy. Her political acumen earned her both admiration and resentment, with some referring to her as the true ruler of the Papal States.

The Shadow Behind the Pope

Olimpia’s influence over Pope Innocent X was undeniable. She was involved in appointing cardinals, managing Vatican finances, and making key political decisions. Her power was so extensive that many believed she was the real force behind the papacy. However, her control over the Vatican’s wealth led to accusations of corruption and greed.

Despite the criticism, Olimpia was also a patron of the arts and played a significant role in shaping Baroque Rome. She contributed to the construction of Piazza Navona, including the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers, designed by Bernini. Her legacy can still be seen in the grand palaces and churches of Rome, which she helped finance and develop.

Fall from Grace and Legacy

After the death of Pope Innocent X in 1655, Olimpia’s fortunes changed dramatically. Without her protector, she was forced to withdraw from public life and eventually retired to her estate in San Martino al Cimino, where she lived until her death in 1657. Despite her fall from grace, her impact on Rome remained undeniable.

Today, Olimpia Maidalchini is remembered as one of the most formidable women in Vatican history, a woman who defied societal norms to hold power in one of the world’s most male-dominated institutions.

Explore Olimpia’s Rome with City Sightseeing Italy

To truly understand Olimpia Maidalchini’s influence, one must explore the places in Rome that bear her mark. The best way to do this is with the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, which allows you to visit some of the most iconic landmarks connected to her legacy.

Start at Piazza Navona, where you can admire the stunning Fountain of the Four Rivers, a project she helped fund. Then, hop on the bus to reach St. Peter’s Basilica, where Olimpia once held immense power behind the scenes. Don’t miss Palazzo Pamphilj, now home to the Brazilian Embassy, which was once her family’s grand residence.

With the convenience of the hop-on hop-off service, you can explore Rome’s rich history at your own pace, enjoying panoramic views of the Eternal City while uncovering the fascinating story of Olimpia Maidalchini.

Olimpia Maidalchini’s story is one of power, intelligence, and resilience. Though she was often vilified by her enemies, she was a woman who managed to navigate the complexities of Vatican politics with skill and ambition. Today, as you explore the grandeur of Rome, take a moment to reflect on the legacy of the woman who once ruled from the shadows—Olimpia Maidalchini, the Popess of Rome.

Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici, the last descendant of the illustrious Medici family, played a crucial role in preserving Florence’s artistic and cultural heritage. Thanks to her foresight and determination, the treasures of the Medici dynasty remained in the city, ensuring that Florence would continue to shine as one of the world’s most important centers of art and history. Her story is one of intelligence, resilience, and a deep love for her homeland.

The Last of the Medici

Born in 1667 in Florence, Anna Maria Luisa was the only daughter of Grand Duke Cosimo III de’ Medici and Marguerite Louise d’Orléans. Raised in the grandeur of the Medici court, she received an exceptional education, particularly in the arts, literature, and politics. Unlike many noblewomen of her time, she was highly involved in cultural and political affairs, demonstrating a keen intellect and strong will.

In 1691, she married Johann Wilhelm, Elector Palatine of the Rhine, and moved to Düsseldorf. Although she lived abroad for many years, she remained deeply connected to Florence, maintaining strong ties with her homeland. Her marriage, however, was childless, and when her husband passed away in 1716, she returned to Florence, where she faced the growing uncertainty surrounding the future of the Medici dynasty.

A Legacy of Cultural Protection

By the time Anna Maria Luisa returned to Florence, the Medici family was on the brink of extinction. Without an heir, the Grand Duchy of Tuscany was set to pass into the hands of the House of Lorraine. Realizing that this transition could lead to the dispersal of the Medici’s vast collection of art, she took a decisive step that would change the course of history.

In 1737, she signed the “Family Pact”, an agreement with the new rulers of Tuscany that ensured the Medici treasures (including paintings, sculptures, books, jewels, and other invaluable works of art) would remain in Florence forever. This act guaranteed that the artistic heritage accumulated by generations of the Medici family would not be taken to foreign lands but would stay in the city to be admired by future generations.

Thanks to her vision, today we can still admire masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Caravaggio, and Leonardo da Vinci in Florence’s museums and palaces, such as the Uffizi Gallery, Pitti Palace, and the Medici Chapels.

Discovering Florence with City Sightseeing Italy

Florence, the city that owes so much to Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici, is a must-visit destination for lovers of art, history, and culture. To explore its magnificent landmarks with ease, the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is the perfect choice.

This convenient and flexible service allows you to visit Florence at your own pace, stopping at key locations such as the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace, and the stunning Ponte Vecchio. You can also admire the Medici Chapels, where Anna Maria Luisa herself is buried, honoring the dynasty she fought so hard to preserve.

With panoramic views of Florence’s Renaissance beauty, the hop-on hop-off bus makes it easy to navigate the city while learning about its rich history through the informative audio guide available onboard.

Anna Maria Luisa de’ Medici passed away in 1743, marking the end of the Medici dynasty. However, her legacy remains alive in every masterpiece that still graces Florence’s museums and palaces. Without her determination and love for her city, the world might have lost some of its greatest artistic treasures.

Visiting Florence today is a tribute to her extraordinary vision. As you explore the city’s wonders, whether by foot or aboard the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus, take a moment to appreciate the woman who made it all possible—the last Medici, Anna Maria Luisa.

The story of Caterina Campodonico, known to most as the “Hazelnut Seller,” is one of the most touching and emotional tales in the history of Genoa. With a stern and authoritative face, Caterina’s life and legacy transcend the simplicity of her humble beginnings. She is not just a symbol of Genoese pride, but also a tribute to all the women who helped shape the city and the surrounding region of Liguria.

A Humble Beginning

Born in 1804 in the Portoria district of Genoa, Caterina came from a poor family. She made a living as a street vendor, but not in the way one might imagine. Unlike most vendors selling clothes or perfumes, Caterina sold canestrelli (a traditional Genovese biscuit) and “reste,” or hazelnut necklaces, which were popular among young couples as symbols of love and good fortune. These simple yet meaningful items would become the foundation of Caterina’s small fortune.

Hazelnut Necklaces and Canestrelli: A Simple Path to Success

The hazelnut necklaces, or reste, were not just decorative; they were considered lucky charms, often purchased by engaged couples as a guarantee of a prosperous and happy marriage. Along with the canestrelli, these humble goods allowed Caterina to save money and eventually build a modest fortune. Despite the simplicity of her products, they played a significant role in her rise, helping her secure a place in Genoa’s history.

A Life Full of Struggles

Life was not always kind to Caterina. She was not considered a great beauty, and her romantic relationships were far from ideal. The most difficult of these relationships was with her husband, Giovanni Carpi, a lazy alcoholic whom she eventually separated from. However, the separation came with a cost, as Caterina was forced to pay him 3,000 francs as part of the settlement.

Her family, particularly her sisters, was not supportive of her entrepreneurial spirit. They thought it improper for a woman to be so independent, especially one who was not married and had no children. Nevertheless, they were well aware of her wealth. She had become the “aunt with money,” and her relatives, despite their criticisms, knew where her fortune had come from.

Caterina’s Revenge and Immortality

Caterina’s relationship with her family soured further when, one day, she fell ill, and instead of offering her support, her relatives began planning to claim her inheritance. However, fate had other plans for her. Caterina survived, and as an act of defiance against her greedy relatives, she commissioned a statue of herself to be created by the sculptor Lorenzo Orengo. This statue would become her tombstone and serve as her eternal monument.

The statue, located at the Staglieno Cemetery in Genoa, captures Caterina’s stern, proud demeanor. The accompanying text, written by the poet Giambattista Vigo, reads:

«A sôn de vende reste e canestrelli
all’Aeguasanta, a-o Garbo, a San Ceprian
con vento e sô, con ægua zù a tinelli,
A-a maè vecciaia pe asseguaghe un pan.
Fra i pochi sodi, m’ammuggiava quelli
pe tramandame a-o tempo ciù lontan
mentre son viva, e son vea portolianna
Cattainin Campodonico (a paisanna)
In questa màe memoia, se ve piaxe
voiatre che passae pregheme paxe»

“While selling necklaces and biscuits at Acquasanta, Garbo, and San Cipriano, through wind and sun, and even pouring rain, to make sure I’d have bread in my old age, I saved a few coins along the way to leave a memory of me in time. While I’m alive and truly from Portoria, Caterina Campodonico (the peasant woman). If you like this memory of mine,please, as you pass by, pray for my peace.”

This inscription reflects her humble beginnings and the resilience that defined her life. The statue, which depicts Caterina with a serious yet proud expression, showcases her wearing a fringed shawl, a brocaded skirt, and her beloved hazelnut necklace and canestrelli.

The Legacy of Caterina Campodonico

Caterina passed away on July 7, 1882, but her legacy lives on through the statue that continues to draw visitors, many of whom seek a bit of good fortune from her monument. Some even claim that the numbers from her death date have led them to win big in the lottery, further cementing her place in Genoa’s cultural lore.

Today, the statue of Caterina Campodonico stands in the Staglieno Cemetery, one of the most beautiful and historic places in Genoa. The cemetery is known for its stunning sculptures and remarkable tombs, and Caterina’s is among the most visited. The marble statue, with its detailed depiction of the “Hazelnut Seller,” remains a testament to her resilience, pride, and contribution to Genoa’s history.

Discovering Genoa with the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

While visiting the statue at Staglieno Cemetery, one can also explore the rest of the beautiful city of Genoa. To make the most of your visit, consider taking the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. This convenient bus tour allows you to discover the highlights of Genoa, including its stunning palaces, museums, and the famous Genoa Aquarium. The bus will take you through the city’s charming streets, past historical landmarks, and give you the flexibility to stop at key locations such as the Royal Palace of Genoa and the Museum of Oriental Art.

The hop-on hop-off service makes it easy to explore at your own pace, and you can even take a moment to visit the Staglieno Cemetery to pay your respects to this remarkable woman who became an enduring symbol of Genoese pride and resilience.

Caterina Campodonico’s life story is one of humble beginnings, personal hardship, and eventual triumph. From selling hazelnut necklaces to becoming an immortal symbol in Genoa’s history, her legacy is one of resilience and independence. Her statue at Staglieno Cemetery remains an important part of the city’s cultural heritage, drawing visitors who are curious about her life and seeking a bit of good fortune. A visit to Genoa offers the opportunity to learn about Caterina’s life and explore the rich history of this beautiful city—best experienced with the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus.

Rita Levi-Montalcini, one of the most distinguished figures in the field of science, made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of the human brain. Born in Turin, Italy, in 1909, her journey to becoming a Nobel laureate in Physiology or Medicine is a testament to her resilience, passion for knowledge, and dedication to improving the human condition.

Early Life and Education

Levi-Montalcini’s early life was marked by both personal and societal challenges. Raised in a middle-class Jewish family, she initially faced resistance from her father, who wanted her to become a teacher rather than pursue her academic ambitions. However, Rita’s determination led her to study medicine at the University of Turin, where she graduated in 1936. In an era where women were often discouraged from pursuing scientific careers, Rita’s persistence was nothing short of remarkable.

Research and Major Discoveries

In the 1940s, the political climate in Italy became increasingly hostile due to the rise of fascism. As a result of the racial laws imposed by the regime, Levi-Montalcini was forced to leave her academic post. Undeterred, she set up a makeshift laboratory in her home, continuing her research on the development of the nervous system. During this period, she made one of her most significant discoveries, the identification of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of nerve cells.

Nobel Prize and Later Years

In 1986, Rita Levi-Montalcini was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, sharing the honor with Stanley Cohen, for their discovery of NGF. Her work not only revolutionized neuroscience but also opened new avenues for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Advocacy for Women and Human Rights

Beyond her scientific achievements, Levi-Montalcini was also a passionate advocate for human rights and women’s empowerment. She served as a senator for life in the Italian Parliament, where she worked tirelessly to promote scientific research and women’s participation in science and politics. Her life and career remain an inspiration to women around the world, demonstrating that with determination and intellect, barriers can be overcome.

Exploring Turin and Rita Levi-Montalcini’s legacy

For those interested in exploring the legacy of this extraordinary woman, the city of Turin offers a wealth of historical and cultural significance. The birthplace of Rita Levi-Montalcini, Turin is home to a number of landmarks and institutions that tell the story of her life and work. One of the best ways to explore this beautiful city is by taking the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off Bus. This convenient tour allows you to visit key sites, such as the Mole Antonelliana, the Royal Palace of Turin, and the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities, while also learning about the historical context that shaped figures like Levi-Montalcini.

The bus service gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and you can easily stop by the University of Turin, where Rita first began her academic journey, or visit local museums that highlight Italy’s rich scientific and cultural history. With the hop-on hop-off convenience, you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city where Levi-Montalcini’s passion for science was born.

Rita Levi-Montalcini’s legacy continues to inspire generations of scientists, particularly women, to pursue their passions and challenge the status quo. Her life is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on the world, and visiting her hometown of Turin offers a unique opportunity to reflect on her monumental contributions to science and society.

Maria Gaetana Agnesi (1718–1799) was a groundbreaking Italian mathematician, philosopher, and linguist. Born in Milan into a wealthy and intellectual family, she became one of the first women to make significant contributions to mathematics, defying the societal norms of her time.

A Brilliant Mind Ahead of Her Time

From an early age, Maria Gaetana Agnesi displayed extraordinary intellectual abilities. By the age of nine, she could fluently speak multiple languages, including Latin, Greek, Hebrew, and French. Her father, Pietro Agnesi, a wealthy silk merchant, recognized her talents and provided her with the best education available. She was often invited to engage in philosophical and mathematical discussions with prominent scholars in Milan.

Despite her privileged status, Agnesi’s true passion lay in mathematics and philosophy. Her most famous work, Instituzioni Analitiche ad Uso della Gioventù Italiana (Analytical Institutions for the Use of Italian Youth), was published in 1748. This book was a comprehensive study of algebra and calculus, making complex mathematical concepts more accessible. It was highly praised across Europe and was even used as a textbook at prestigious institutions like the University of Cambridge.

One of the most well-known concepts linked to Agnesi is the “Witch of Agnesi”, a mathematical curve described in her book. Despite its misleading name (originating from a mistranslation of the Italian word versiera) the curve remains an important topic in calculus and physics today.

A life dedicated to knowledge and charity

Although Agnesi had the opportunity to pursue an academic career, she chose a different path. Deeply religious, she devoted much of her later life to charitable work, helping the poor and sick. She withdrew from public life and eventually managed a hospice for the elderly in Milan, dedicating herself to humanitarian causes rather than mathematical studies.

Discovering Milan through Agnesi’s legacy

To truly appreciate the legacy of Maria Gaetana Agnesi, a visit to Milan is a must. The city, rich in history, art, and innovation, was the backdrop to her intellectual journey. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the University of Milan, one of the oldest universities in Italy, and the Ambrosian Library, which houses a wealth of scholarly works from her era.

For an immersive experience, the City Sightseeing Italy Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is a perfect way to navigate Milan with ease. From the magnificent Duomo di Milano to the picturesque streets of Brera, the tour allows visitors to soak in the city’s cultural heritage while stopping at key landmarks connected to its historical figures, including Agnesi. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of mathematics, or simply an explorer of great minds, Milan offers a unique journey through time.

A Lasting Influence

Maria Gaetana Agnesi remains an inspiring figure in the fields of mathematics and education. She broke barriers for women in academia and left a lasting legacy through her contributions to analytical mathematics. Her life serves as a testament to the power of knowledge and the importance of using intellect for the betterment of society.

Visiting Milan and following in the footsteps of this remarkable woman is a journey worth taking—one that connects history, learning, and discovery in the heart of Italy.

Want to explore more stories of inspiring women in Italy? Hop on a City Sightseeing Italy tour and uncover the incredible legacies of women who shaped history.