The funeral is being held at the historic Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where emotion hangs heavy in the air. White roses—symbols of purity and grace—have been placed beside Valentino’s coffin, a quiet yet powerful tribute to a man who defined beauty for more than six decades.

The news of Valentino’s passing was announced by his foundation in an official statement released on Monday, January 19, which read:
“Valentino Garavani passed away today at his residence in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones.”

Outside the basilica, around 300 members of the public have gathered, while inside, approximately 750 guests are in attendance. Among them are Donatella Versace, Anna Wintour, Anne Hathaway, and Tom Ford—each a testament to the immense impact Valentino had across generations of fashion and culture.

Giancarlo Giammetti, Valentino’s longtime collaborator and former partner, is expected to deliver a short farewell message—his personal goodbye to the man with whom he shared more than sixty years of creative partnership and extraordinary success.

Valentino will be laid to rest at Rome’s Prima Porta Cemetery, in a tomb that was completed only recently.

Rome, the city he loved, now mourns the designer who dressed dreams, defined glamour, and left an indelible mark on fashion history.