VERONA, Italy — The historic Roman Arena in Verona, a monument dating back to 1 A.D., served as the magnificent backdrop for the final celebration of the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics on Sunday. Approximately 1,500 athletes gathered within the ancient amphitheater for a closing ceremony titled “Beauty in Motion,” which blended athletic achievement with Italian cultural artistry.
Under the guidance of producer Alfredo Accatino, the production featured acclaimed ballet dancer Roberto Bolle and 350 volunteers who rehearsed secretly throughout the week. The conceptual framework explored beauty as a dynamic force, with Accatino explaining: “Beauty cannot be fixed in time. This ancient monument is beautiful if it is alive, if it continues to change. We want to narrate an Italy that is changing, and also the beauty of movement, sport, and nature.”
The ceremony showcased prominent Italian performers including singer Achille Lauro and DJ Gabry Ponte, whose music echoed through the ancient structure during preparations. Elaborate costumes inspired by opera traditions were meticulously crafted by seamstresses in temporary dressing rooms.
The production design incorporated a stage resembling a water droplet, symbolically connecting the mountain venues with the Po River Valley while acknowledging how climate change is transforming winter sports. The ceremony opened with athletes processing triumphantly through Piazza Bra into the Arena—a space that historically hosted gladiatorial combat and exotic animal hunts.
Maria Laura Iascone, head of ceremonies for the local organizing committee, explained Verona’s selection over the smaller Cortina d’Ampezzo: “Only Italians can use such monuments to do special events. This is very unique, very rare.” The event maintained an intimate atmosphere with approximately 12,000 attendees, contrasting with the 60,000 spectators at Milan’s San Siro stadium opening.
Logistical considerations included athletes traveling from six mountain venues, with some journeys lasting up to four hours. Environmental protections led to the replacement of traditional fireworks with a light show to prevent disturbing local wildlife.
The Arena, recently upgraded with wheelchair ramps and accessible facilities, will host the Paralympic opening ceremony on March 6, with events continuing in Milan and Cortina until March 15.