Pavarotti statue in the middle of ice rink. Credit: TikTok / @alexdub61
A Christmas ice rink built around a life-size bronze statue of Luciano Pavarotti in the Italian city of Pesaro has triggered international criticism and forced the mayor into a public apology.
The legend Luciano Pavarotti
Luciano Pavarotti was one of the most celebrated operatic tenors of the 20th century, renowned for his remarkable vocal range. Born in Modena in 1935, he rose to international prominence in the 1960s through acclaimed performances at major opera houses in roles by Verdi, Puccini and Donizetti. His appearance in the 1990 World Cup “Three Tenors” concert with Plácido Domingo and José Carreras brought opera to vast new audiences, while his rendition of Nessun dorma became one of the best-known classical recordings of all time. Over the course of his career, he sold tens of millions of records worldwide. Pavarotti died in September 2007 at the age of 71 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
The bronze statue at the centre of the Pesaro controversy was commissioned to honour his long-standing ties to the city. Although born in Modena, Pavarotti owned a villa in the hills above Pesaro and was made an honorary citizen. Created by Veronese sculptor Albano Poli, the statue was unveiled in April 2024.
The temporary installation, which encircles the statue with a raised platform and perspex barrier, appears knee-deep in the rink. Pavarotti’s widow, Nicoletta Mantovani, told local newspapers that she felt “disappointed, angry and upset” by the setup and felt it “ridiculed” her late husband.
Mayor’s ‘high-five’ hashtag backfires amid backlash
Before the outcry, Pesaro mayor Andrea Biancani promoted the rink with a digitally altered photo of Pavarotti apparently ice skating, using the hashtag #daiuncinqueaPavarotti (“Give Pavarotti a high five”).
After criticism grew nationally and internationally, Biancani apologised publicly saying the city had “made a mistake” and that “there was never any intention of disrespect.”
Viral social media footage of Pavarotti ice rink statue
Footage of skaters circling the statue, some shared by TikTok user AlexDub, drew international attention. Several users joked about the situation, while others voiced confusion and criticism.
According to The New Daily, the city has indicated it will review how the square is used for future festive events, with officials acknowledging the need to avoid similar issues next year.
For now, the statue remains in place as part of Pesaro’s Christmas programme. What do you think of it? Let us know in the comments below.
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