Idle days

What’s in a name The Spanish flu. That is a textbook example of unfair naming. The pandemic broke out in the war torn year of 1918. Intelligence in the belligerent countries censored the news, playing it down. Spain was neutral in the First World war. Hence the news was not censored. And when King Alfonso …

New phase, new rules The piratical priest. Italy and Sicily are no longer in lockdown. There are though strict rules to obey. Physical distancing, mouth masks and gloves are compulsory. Apart from restaurants and school, Italy is open again. And so are churches. People may also attend the holy Mass once again. The bishops recently …

Yes, you are welcome Welcome tourists! From 3 June Italy opens it borders. People from the Schengen can then travel to Italy. No need to quarentine, no need for certifications. The restrictions on physical distancing and mouth masks concern Italians as well as tourists. 13% of Italy’s GDP comes from tourism. And opening up the …

Franz Ferdinand of Lombardy Atalanta and Sarajevo The assassination of Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo triggered the first world war. A football match triggered the Italian tragedy. On 19 February Atalanta Bergamo played Valencia. The return match. Fans had to go to Milano for the game. The local stadium was declared inadequate. A record number of …