Rome [Italy], June 15: Italy held a state funeral on Wednesday for former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi at Milan Cathedral that his supporters welcomed and his critics called overblown.
A real estate, media and football mogul who moved into politics, Berlusconi shaped Italian politics for decades. He died on Monday at the age of 86 after a period of ill health.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister GiorgiaMeloni were among those attending the service, as was almost the entire cabinet.
Around 2,000 people were allowed into the cathedral. Top people from industry, entertainment and sports also came. Most EU countries were represented by their ambassadors.
Four large screens broadcast the service onto the square outside where thousands of people had gathered.
Eyewitnesses said the atmosphere amidst Berlusconi's supporters outside the cathedral felt a lot like a football match. Berlusconi supporters had started gathering hours before the funeral service began. Men, women, young people and pensioners stood behind the barriers clutching Berlusconi flags and chanting: "Silvio!
Silvio!" They also sang "C'e solo un presidente" (There is only one President).
Source: Qatar Tribune
