Treviso's Sheriff Mayor, Giancarlo Gentilini, Dies at 95: A Controversial Legacy

Treviso Mourns its Controversial "Sheriff"

Giancarlo Gentilini, the former mayor of Treviso, passed away on April 24th, 2025, at the age of 95. It’s the end of an era, that’s for sure. He was a man who sparked strong reactions, a real love-him-or-hate-him kind of guy. His legacy? Well, that's a bit more complicated.

A Mayor Who Didn't Play it Safe

Elected in 1994, Gentilini served two terms as mayor, and later as deputy mayor. He was known for his blunt opinions and, let's just say, unconventional approach to governance. His strong anti-communist views and hardline stance on immigration made headlines. He wasn’t afraid to ruffle feathers. I mean, the guy once suggested dressing immigrants as rabbits for hunters! And then there was his decision to remove park benches to deter loitering. You know how sometimes things just spiral? Some people saw him as a champion of law and order, a strong leader restoring peace to their city. Others? Well, they saw things very differently.

Beyond the Outrage: Some Surprising Actions

It wasn't all controversy, though. Believe it or not, Gentilini also had some surprising successes. He introduced strict rules about dog waste, which, admittedly, is something we can all relate to. Keeping a clean city was a priority. He also started the Ombralonga, a massive wine-tasting event that drew in thousands. Sadly, it had a tragic ending, but it did put Treviso on the map for a time. His supporters always pointed to these achievements, highlighting that his dedication to the city went beyond the headlines and his controversial rhetoric.

The Reactions Pour In

Gentilini's death triggered a wave of reactions. Matteo Salvini, among others, remembered him as "a great mayor, a great Alpine, a great Veneto, a great Lega Nord member." But others focused on his more divisive policies. Honestly, who saw *that* coming? Love him or hate him, his mark on Treviso, and Italian politics more broadly, is undeniable. His time in office reflected a very specific moment in Italian history, a period of intense political change.

A Legacy That Will Last

His death leaves a big hole in Treviso's political scene. His time as mayor – a mix of success and intense controversy – will be debated for years to come. It’s a reminder that leadership can be complicated, a messy mix of good intentions, bad ideas, and strong personalities. His story, whether you agree with him or not, is definitely part of Treviso’s history. It's a legacy that’s likely to shape the city’s narrative for decades to come, making him a figure that will continue to be talked about, even long after his passing. He certainly left his mark.