Illustrissimi

The Letters of Pope John Paul I

For 33 days in 1975 the infectious smile of John Paul I lit up the world.

Illustrissimi is a collection of droll letters he wrote for a newspaper before his election. Addressed to famous characters of history and literature, his pointed comments sparkle with humour and wisdom. Whether he is discussing the pangs of adolescence with Pinocchio, pornography with Sir Walter Scott, capitalism with Marconi or miniskirts with empress Maria Theresa he manages to be both edifying and amusing.

Illustrissimi is one of the few available clues to the personality of a Pope whose brief ministry charmed millions of people. Illustrated.

The Vatican announced on 11th July 2022 that Pope John Paul I will be beatified 4th September 2022 in St. Peter’s Square.