Italian Presidency analyzed in new book ‘Romanzo Quirinale’

A new essay titled ‘Romanzo Quirinale’ by Savino Balzano, published by Paper First, examines the influence and actions of Italy’s recent heads of state, Giorgio Napolitano and Sergio Mattarella.

The book analyzes the ‘unsaid’ declarations of both presidents, noting that they are the only leaders to have served beyond the seven-year term prescribed by the Constitution. Napolitano served eight years and eight months, while Mattarella, whose term expires in 2029, secured a full second mandate after refusing a temporary extension.

Balzano argues that the presidency has drifted away from the Italian Constitution in favor of interests in Washington and Brussels. The text critiques the evolution of the role, suggesting the presidency has moved toward a monarchical model driven by political convenience and party dominance rather than constitutional principles.