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Cards and sobriety: Andreotti in the mountains, guest of nuns
🇮🇹 Italy /Culture & Society

Cards and sobriety: Andreotti in the mountains, guest of nuns

From Corriere della Sera · () Italian

Translated from Italian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Former Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti spent his holidays in a modest institute run by nuns in Cortina d’Ampezzo.
  • This contrasts sharply with the lavish vacations often taken by contemporary politicians, who prefer expensive resorts and yachts.
  • Andreotti's simple routine included reading newspapers, working, and enjoying pastries, occasionally meeting figures like Indro Montanelli and Gianni Agnelli.

In stark contrast to the opulent vacations favored by many modern politicians, former Italian Prime Minister Giulio Andreotti chose a life of simplicity during his mountain retreats. For years, Andreotti vacationed at an institute run by the Ursuline Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Every now and then, in truth, I would even be tempted: the fact is that all my friends who practiced sports, then, died.

— Giulio AndreottiAndreotti explained his lack of interest in physical activities during his mountain stays.

While current leaders are often seen frequenting thousand-dollar-a-night resorts and luxury yachts, Andreotti preferred the quiet mountain air. He reportedly disliked the sea, opting instead for the views from his modest accommodations. His daily routine involved reading newspapers, including those focused on horse racing, a passion of his, and dedicating time to work, often with his legendary agendas filled with notes and secrets.

Oh, holy heaven! Gianni Agnelli is at the institute's door: 'Hello, Mother: I'm looking for President Andreotti. Can you call him for me?'

— Suor ClementinaA nun at the institute reacted with surprise to the unexpected arrival of Gianni Agnelli.

Andreotti's simple mountain life included purchasing warm pastries for his grandchildren and engaging in brief encounters with visiting cardinals and politicians who sought him out. His son Stefano recalled visits from notable figures like journalist Indro Montanelli and Enzo Biagi, as well as a memorable visit from then-President Francesco Cossiga in August 1991, who arrived by helicopter dressed casually. These recollections paint a picture of a different era in Italian politics, marked by a more understated approach to public life.

Then, one time, it was August 1991, Francesco Cossiga came to visit him, the President of the Republic: and, on that occasion, there was a bit of a stir.

— Stefano AndreottiAndreotti's son recalled a visit from the then-President Francesco Cossiga.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Corriere della Sera in Italian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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