Genoa´s tragedy points to a malaise at Italy´s heart | Tobias Jones
(The Guardian Italy)

The country boasts marvels that have lasted centuries. Now a culture of corruption has led to mediocrity everywhereThe horror of the bridge collapse in Genoa could hardly have happened in a more stunning city. I´m supposed to go there for work, but usually find myself idling to admire the sudden views of the sea from the hills. It´s a bit like Bristol: an elderly port that, with its rivers, summits and soul, has reinvented itself.Genoa has always felt a strangely English place, too. The city´s flag is a St George´s cross. It was here that Italy´s oldest football team, still called Genoa Cricket and Football Club, was founded by an English doctor. It went on to win nine scudetti (championships) in the glory days of the early 20th century. Related: Genoa bridge death toll rises to 35 as more bodies pulled from rubble Continue reading...