Silvio Berlusconi’s partner weeps as his coffin is carried into Milan cathedral for his state funeral
Silvio Berlusconi’s 33-year-old partner wept as the former Italian premier’s coffin was carried into Milan’s vast Gothic Duomo today for his state funeral.
Marta Fascina – alongside Berlusconi‘s’ children – could not hold back her tears as pallbearers carried the coffin down the cathedral’s aisle as the ceremony began. She was seen again outside as the coffin left the building, on its way to be cremated.
The occasion has proved controversial in Italy, with many furious that such an honour is being bestowed upon a three-time Prime Minister and media mogul tarnished by scandals – including his famous Bunga Bunga sex orgies.
Nevertheless, tens of thousands of Berlusconi’s supporters gathered in the square in front of the Duomo to watch the proceedings live on giant screens, and applauded as the casket was carried up a flight of stairs and through the cathedral’s doors.
A further 2,300 people – made up of Italy’s business and political elite, including the president and three former premiers – gathered alongside Berlusconi’s children and companion, who openly wept as the casket was placed in front of the altar.
Today is also national day of mourning to mark the passing of the man that most Italians identify as the most influential figure in Italy over recent decades.