A bronze statue of the late tenor, and a former Ferrari race car driver, has cultural critics in arms. Residents lost their cool after the tree hung over the middle of a brand-new ice skating rink built in Pesaro. The marble statue depicts Pavarotti in built, tuxedo tail coat at his signature husky tenor croon fierce generaciones. It opened in April 2024 to celebrate the career of the iconic artist, who died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 71 in 2007.
The sculpture represents a tribute to Pavarotti’s extraordinary artistic genius. It draws attention to his partnership with other tenors Plácido Domingo and José Carreras as The Three Tenors. This magical trio would go on to create the best-selling classical album of all time, cementing their place in music history.
Nicoletta Mantovani, Pavarotti’s widow, expressed her anger over the rink’s current placement. She argues that it dishonors the respect her late husband earned and deserves. She stated, “I’m sorry the city allowed something like this, because it affects Luciano’s image and the respect he deserves.”
The ice rink was built as a part of the city’s campaign to light the way into the holiday season. Mayor Andrea Biancani released a manipulated photo of Pavarotti on Facebook to make it look like Pavarotti was “skating.” She included the hashtag #daiUnCinqueAPavarotti, inviting skaters to “high-five” the statue. Fans and critics alike were appalled by this post. In response, Biancani issued a formal apology to Mantovani for the harm it caused.
Though the move has come under fire, city leaders have chosen to go ahead with the toppling rink’s opening. In response, a spokesman for the city hall stressed that they never intended to offend Mantovani or Pavarotti’s memory. As far as Pavarotti being in danger – He said, “I was promised that Pavarotti wouldn’t be harmed or made part of the ice rink flooring.
A fifth hole in the already strong link between Pavarotti and the Adriatic Coast is his famed holiday home there. That they put up the statue to honor him is both the point and a shame. It pays tribute to his still-present impact on classical music.
As the skate palace opens its doors, admirers of Pavarotti prepare for the haul. Through this important work, they carry a great responsibility to honor the late and revered artist in the way and dignity he deserves.
