Olympic Torch Relay Ignites Two-Month Italian Journey for Milan Cortina Games

Olympic swimming champion Gregorio Paltrinieri kicked off the torch relay for the Milan Cortina Winter Games, beginning a two-month journey through Italy. The relay will cover 12,000 kilometers and involve 10,001 torch bearers, visiting all 110 provinces and 61 UNESCO sites, before the February 6 opening ceremony.

Olympic swimming champion Gregorio Paltrinieri and fellow Summer athletes launched the torch relay for the Milan Cortina Winter Games, marking two months until the February 6 opening ceremony. The sleek torch began its journey at the Stadio dei Marmi in Rome, embarking on a path through Italy's 110 provinces.

The relay spans 12,000 kilometers, winding through various towns and cities, involving 10,001 torch bearers. Notable participants include Olympic medalists and personalities such as Gianmarco Tamberi and Ricky Tognazzi. The relay also highlights Italy's 61 UNESCO World Heritage sites, doubling as an extensive promotional event for the country.

The torch will pause for celebrations in Naples on Christmas and Bari on New Year's Eve, before arriving at the 2006 Olympic host city, Turin, and continuing to Cortina d'Ampezzo, with the final opening ceremony taking place in Milan and other northern locations.

(With inputs from agencies.)