Paris honors many. But have you ever paused to consider the story behind Rue Cino Del Duca? This street pays homage to Cino Del Duca. He was a remarkable Italian entrepreneur and philanthropist. He left an indelible mark on both France and Italy.
Rue Cino Del Duca is found in the 17th arrondissement. It also stretches into Levallois-Perret and Neuilly-sur-Seine. This street wasn’t always here. It was created in 1975 during a city planning project. In 1976, it was officially named Rue Cino Del Duca. Before that, it was simply known as Voie AC/17. The street runs parallel to the Boulevard Périphérique. It connects with Rue Jacques-Ibert.
Cino Del Duca’s life began in Montedinove, Italy, in 1899. He was named Pacifico. But everyone called him Cino. From a young age, he worked hard to support his family. His father was a poet and a follower of Garibaldi. He faced financial struggles.
Cino’s anti-fascist views led him to France in 1932. There, he started a successful publishing business. He became known for comics and photo novels. During World War II, Cino supported the French Resistance. He even funded the Garibaldi Legion. The German police captured him. But he escaped and continued to fight against the Nazis.
After the war, Cino expanded his business. He launched several women’s magazines. He also produced films and published books. In 1957, he bought a struggling newspaper, Paris Jour. With his wife’s help, he turned it around.
Cino Del Duca loved horses. He owned a stable of thoroughbreds that won prestigious races. In 1955, he became president of the Ascoli football club in Italy. His contributions earned him many honors. The French government made him a Knight of the Legion of Honor. The University of Urbino gave him an honorary degree in literature.
Even after moving away, Cino never forgot his hometown. He donated a school, a sports facility, and other public works to Montedinove. He also provided jobs for his fellow villagers in his businesses.
Cino Del Duca died in Milan in 1967. He is buried in Père Lachaise cemetery in Paris. His legacy lives on through the Cino and Simone Del Duca Foundation. His wife, Simone, established it. The foundation supports cultural and scientific endeavors. This street serves as a reminder of Cino Del Duca’s remarkable life. He was a man of courage, vision, and generosity. He enriched both France and Italy. Rue Cino Del Duca stands as a tribute to his enduring impact.