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Farewell to the Emperor: Valentino Honored in Rome

Published January 23, 2026, 16:24
Farewell to the Emperor: Valentino Honored in Rome

The funeral of iconic fashion designer Valentino was held at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome, attended by prominent figures from the fashion and art worlds. The church was decorated with white roses, and a large photograph of the designer was placed before the altar. Valentino, who passed away at the age of 93, dressed some of the most stylish women in the world, including Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy, and Princess Diana. Actress Anne Hathaway, among others, paid tribute to the designer, calling him a “titan of fashion” and recalling personal moments they shared. Also in attendance were Donatella Versace, Tom Ford, Alessandro Michele, and Anna Wintour, as well as many employees of the Valentino fashion house. Most attendees were dressed in black, while several chose red accessories, honoring the designer’s signature color. Valentino’s former partner and collaborator, Giancarlo Giammetti, spoke emotionally about the designer’s life and work, emphasizing the beauty he brought to the world. The funeral concluded with a blessing from Catholic priest Pietro Guarini, who praised Valentino’s creativity and aesthetics, noting that the beauty he created “saves and creates dreams that change the world.” The designer’s coffin had been on public display for two days prior to the funeral, allowing friends, fans, and colleagues to bid farewell to the iconic creator.