Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
2000
Pilgrims pour into Rome from all over the world to celebrate the Catholic Church's Jubilee year. A
highpoint is a mass attended by two million people at Tor Vergata university.
2001
Charismatic media tycoon Silvio Berlusconi becomes prime minister for the second time. His first
term in 1994 was a short-lived affair; his second lasts the full five-year course.
2002
On 1 January, the euro becomes legal tender in Italy and 11 other European countries. Critics later
blame the single currency for the country's economic woes.
2005
Pope John Paul II dies after 27 years on the papal throne. He is replaced by his long-standing ally
Josef Ratzinger, who takes the name Benedict XVI.
2008
Gianni Alemanno, a former member of the neo-fascist party MSI (Movimento Sociale Italiano),
sweeps to victory in Rome's mayoral elections. The news makes headlines across the world.
2008−09
Berlusconi bounces back for a third term as PM after a two-year spell in opposition. In 2009 he hosts
the G8 summit in the earthquake-shattered city of L'Aquila.
2011
On 1 May, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims gather in St Peter's Square to witness the beatification
of Pope John Paul II. The ceremony is the last step before sainthood.
2011
PM Berlusconi resigns on 12 November as Italy's debt crisis threatens to spiral out of control. He is
replaced by economist Mario Monti.
2012
On 31 October, the Church's top brass meet in the Sistine Chapel to celebrate the 500th anniversary
of Michelangelo's ceiling frescoes.
2012
The Vatileaks scandal breaks when the pope's personal butler leaks documents to the press purport-
ing to expose corruption and in-fighting within the Holy See.
