Marco POlo
THE FIGURE
Marco Polo's Life
Born in Venice in 1254, Marco Polo was one of the greatest travelers in history. In 1271, he embarked on an epic journey along the Silk Road with his father and uncle, exploring lands never before seen by Europeans. After years of adventures, he reached the court of the powerful Kublai Khan, where he stayed for 17 years, becoming one of the emperor's trusted advisors. This journey became one of the most significant exchanges between East and West in history.
Il Milione: Its Legacy
During his imprisonment in Genoa, Italy, Marco Polo dictated his memories to Rustichello da Pisa, giving life to the masterpiece Il Milione. This work revolutionized Europe's perception of the world, describing the wonders of the East: from paper money to advanced agricultural techniques, and the grandeur of Asian cities. It was not just a travel account but a symbol of connection and discovery.
A Bridge Between East and West
During his 17 years at the court of Kublai Khan, Marco Polo held high-profile roles, including ambassador and city governor, becoming an essential intermediary between the East and the West. His keen observation and curiosity allowed him to bring back to Europe a detailed vision of a world that was previously unknown.
Among Marco Polo's most significant contributions to Italy were descriptions of advanced urban infrastructures, such as irrigation systems and river transport networks, along with insights into silk production and the commercial organization of Chinese cities. This cultural exchange not only brought the East closer to Italy but also laid the groundwork for future economic and cultural exchanges, demonstrating how dialogue and mutual curiosity can create deep and lasting connections.
BUSTS
Fostering Global Connections
The Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation traces its origins to 1989, when the activities that would eventually define its mission began under the vision of an enlightened entrepreneur. The Foundation has been steadfast in its mission to foster cultural exchange and dialogue among young people from diverse countries and backgrounds. Its guiding motto—“For world peace, among the youth of different nations, through Culture: meeting, knowing, understanding to foster friendship among peoples”—reflects its unwavering commitment to promoting intercultural understanding and strengthening bonds between nations.
The Foundation passionately celebrates the diversity of cultural expressions and creates opportunities for meaningful connections through a variety of international initiatives. Often hosted in cultural landmarks and heritage sites, these events underscore the role of culture as a bridge that unites communities and fosters mutual respect. A key part of this mission is the Life Beyond Tourism, which promotes the idea of travel as a tool for dialogue, encouraging visitors to go beyond traditional tourism and engage deeply with local cultures.
As a non-profit organization, the Foundation promotes dialogue through an array of projects, including research, publications, awards, scholarships, and educational programs. Its core principle, “Heritage for Dialogue Among Cultures,” is evident in every endeavor, with the aim of building a more inclusive, empathetic, and culturally enriched world.
Donations
Over the years, the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation has strengthened bonds of friendship and gratitude with institutions, universities, and communities around the world by donating statues made of statuary white Carrara marble. These statues depict some of the most iconic figures in Italian culture and thought, honoring their enduring legacy.
Through these donations, the Foundation actively promotes the value of culture and art, inspiring us to seek beauty, hope, and inspiration from these remarkable figures and the "journey" they represent.
The Marco Polo Busts Around the World
On the occasion of the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s birth, one of history’s greatest travelers and cultural ambassadors, the Romualdo Del Bianco Foundation commissioned the creation of the sculpture “In viaggio per il dialogo”. Crafted by renowned sculptor Dino De Ranieri from Pietrasanta, in Italy, the bust is more than a mere representation: it is a universal tribute to the journey as a tool for cultural connection and mutual understanding.
This sculpture embodies the spirit of Marco Polo, who transformed exploration into a bridge between East and West, reminding us of the importance of dialogue as a means to build a more united world.
ARTWORK
The Artwork and Its Creator
Dino De Ranieri, a sculptor from Pietrasanta renowned for his mastery of marble and unique approach to portraiture, views each piece as a journey into the depths of the human soul. For De Ranieri, a bust is not merely a physical representation but an opportunity to capture the essence of a character and the universal message they embody.
"With ‘In viaggio per il dialogo’, I wanted to portray Marco Polo not just as an explorer but as a living symbol of intercultural dialogue. The piece celebrates movement, curiosity, and the ability to connect seemingly distant worlds. Every detail of the bust reflects the spirit of travel: the face gazing beyond symbolizes the pursuit of new perspectives, while the soft lines evoke the flow of cultures meeting and enriching each other. Through this work, I invite anyone who observes it to reflect on the importance of dialogue as a tool to build a better future."