The article by Irene Dominioni focuses on Trust Amsterdam, a unique cafe in Amsterdam that operates on a 'pay as you wish' basis, reflecting an alternative economic model based on social trust. The cafe, which serves vegetarian dishes, is run by volunteers and aims to promote generosity and human connection over profit. The concept is linked to the broader idea of the sharing economy, as explained by Rachel Botsman, an expert in the field. Botsman suggests that trust is becoming a new form of currency, with platforms like Airbnb and Blablacar empowering individuals to become micro-entrepreneurs. The article explores the potential of trust-based economies to redefine the meaning of money and power, and questions the fairness of traditional pricing models versus those that allow for payment based on individual economic capacity.

In San Casciano dei Bagni, Tuscany, 24 Roman bronze statues dating from the first and second century AD were discovered in a thermal pool, remarkably preserved by mud and hot water. This significant find, led by archaeologist Jacopo Tabolli, offers insights into the cultural and linguistic history of the region during the transition from Etruscan to Roman rule. The statues, which include deities linked to medicine, will be restored and displayed in a new museum in the town, enhancing its cultural and touristic appeal. The discovery underscores the importance of the site and the ongoing efforts by the Italian Ministry of Culture to preserve and promote its heritage.

Samantha Cristoforetti, a 45-year-old Italian astronaut, is set to become the first European woman to command the International Space Station (ISS). The official ceremony for the transfer of command from Oleg Artemyev will be live-streamed on September 28th. Cristoforetti, known as AstroSamantha, is recognized for her active social media engagement, sharing insights into life on the ISS. Her second mission, Minerva, spans from April to October 2022. Cristoforetti's background includes a mechanical engineering degree, training at the Italian Air Force Academy, and becoming a war pilot before being selected by the European Space Agency in 2009. Her first space mission was in 2014, making her the first Italian woman in space.

Italian glaciers are rapidly melting, with significant volume and surface losses reported over the past decades. Legambiente's 'Carovana dei Ghiacciai' report highlights the severe impact of the climate crisis on glaciers in the Alps, including Mont Blanc and Monte Rosa. The report calls for urgent climate action, emphasizing the need for mitigation policies and adaptation plans. The melting glaciers pose a significant threat, as evidenced by the recent deadly collapse in the Marmolada complex.

Piero Angela, a renowned Italian science journalist and TV presenter, passed away at the age of 93. He was a prominent figure in Italy's broadcasting industry, known for his informative yet accessible science programs, particularly the show Quark. Angela's career spanned over 70 years at RAI, where he started in the 1950s and covered significant events like the Apollo Moon Missions. His work was celebrated for its depth and clarity, making science approachable for the public. Tributes flowed from institutional figures, including President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Mario Draghi, who acknowledged his unifying influence on the country. Angela's legacy is also carried on by his son Alberto, who is following in his father's footsteps as a science journalist.

August is a peak holiday month in Italy, leading to high traffic on highways, especially on weekends. Autostrade per l’Italia warns of critical traffic levels on specific dates, particularly on motorways A1, A14, and A30. Anas has removed 500 building sites and will limit truck circulation to ease traffic.

Airports worldwide, including Italian hubs Roma Fiumicino and Milano Malpensa, are facing significant disruptions with high numbers of flight delays and cancellations. The issues stem from staff shortages after airlines reduced their workforce during the pandemic. Roma Fiumicino experienced almost 6,000 delayed flights, while Milano Malpensa had over 5,000 delays and 466 cancellations. Similar situations are occurring at other major European airports.

Artemisia Gentileschi, a renowned Baroque artist and one of Italy's most famous female painters, had one of her paintings recovered and returned to Italy after it was illicitly exported and put up for auction in Vienna. The painting, valued at around €2 million, was brought back by the Carabinieri Cultural Heritage Protection Squad. The export occurred in 2019, with art dealers concealing the painting's true value and artist to facilitate its export. Gentileschi, known for her depictions of strong women and her unique style inspired by Caravaggio, faced significant personal and professional challenges, including a rape by her master Agostino Tassi. Despite these challenges, she gained recognition during her lifetime and posthumously, with her works displayed in major international art institutions.

The casino of Campione d’Italia, a significant economic driver for the town, went bankrupt in 2018, leading to severe consequences for the local community. The casino, which had been a major employer and revenue source, was shut down by a local court due to insurmountable debts. The closure affected the entire town, which relied heavily on the casino's income. The crisis was attributed to high maintenance costs, poor investment decisions, and competition from online gambling. The casino reopened in June 2021 after the Italian Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court deemed the closure illegitimate, allowing some employees to return to work.

Milan's green, dragon-shaped water fountains, known as vedovelle, are a symbol of the city, with 580 located in public parks and squares. Produced by the Lamperti foundry for about a century, these fountains are made of cast iron and brass, standing 1.55 m tall and weighing 280 kg. The design references the Visconti family's symbol, a snake. The fountains were named in remembrance of World War I widows. The first was installed in 1932 in piazza della Scala. Despite a drought in Northern Italy, the fountains remain operational, providing continuous water flow without waste, as unused water is purified and used for irrigation. The water comes from underground sources, distributed through a network of 2,235 kilometers of water pipes and 587 wells.