"Rome pays tribute to an extraordinary artist, capable of crossing genres and eras, with a versatility that has set a benchmark in contemporary cinema". These were the remarks of Rome's Mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, who awarded Robert De Niro with the Lupa Capitolina, the city's highest honor, at a ceremony on Capitoline Hill. This award recognizes a career's cultural and artistic worth in shaping the history of world cinema. "Robert De Niro is a prominent role model and a pivotal figure who has contributed significantly to the history of cinema, captivating audiences with his remarkable performances. Awarding him the Lupa Capitolina means thanking him for what he represents and for the strong link he has with Rome — the capital of cinema and a source of inspiration for artists of every generation — a city that will always welcome him as a second home", said Mayor Gualtieri. "Rome is not only a metropolis; it is a living work of art. Every street, every stone, and every meal has a story to tell. To be recognized here, in a place that has given so much to the world—culture, cinema, and beauty—is truly moving", remarked Robert De Niro, whose family has Italian origins. “That’s why this recognition has such personal meaning for me. I have always felt a deep connection to this country, its people, its passion, and its respect for craftsmanship and creativity".