Dame Emma Thompson is set to achieve her lifelong dream by relocating to Venice.
The Love Actually star has made no secret of her desire to live in the Italian city since her childhood and has now bought a property there, which she hopes to live in permanently.
“Venice has always held a special place in my heart since my childhood,” she said in an interview with Italian publication Il Gazzettino.
“Now, my dream has come true. I’ve settled into a house within the city and whenever possible, I spend a minimum of two to three months there. In the meantime, I’m diligently studying Italian to master the language.”
Thompson, who is based in London while she cares for her 91-year-old mother, continued: “I still maintain my residence in London, close to my children and my mother. Given her needs, my top priority is to be there for her.
“Nonetheless, my greatest wish is to establish Venice as my permanent residence for an entire year. In the interim, I find immense joy in savouring the city for a few months.”
Thompson and her husband Greg Wise were granted honorary citizenship of Venice three-years-ago. While the title holds no legal significance, it symbolises their strong connection to the city. Deputy Mayor of Venice, Simone Venturini, expressed his delight in bestowing this honour upon the couple.
“They expressed their wish to become official residents in order to live in Venice,” he recalled.
“Their property acquisition is in the historic heart of the city, signifying their genuine commitment. Emma was genuinely thrilled and openly professed her profound affection for Venice.
“They informed me of their Italian language courses,” he added.
“We take immense pride and joy in having Emma Thompson and Greg Wise as fellow citizens, appreciating their significance and the love they exhibit for Venice.”
