A famous song by our fellow citizen and comedian Giuseppe Castiglia says “Catania makes mothers and ruins their hot guys“. In fact, there are many characters in the Etna area who have been adopted by the city. Among these Pauline, or as most people know it “Paolino I love you”, is certainly one of the most iconic figures throughout the area. It could almost be elevated to a symbol of love and benevolence, as demonstrated by some graffiti on the walls of the historic center. A sentiment the city reciprocates and seeks to return.
It's just love, unconditional benevolence, which he isn't greedy to dispense to anyone who even wants to say hello, which makes Paolino special in everyone's eyes. He could be described as a child in an adult's body: short, with a sweet gaze and a crew cut often covered by his cap. At first meeting, he might seem strange, but as often happens, if you look beyond appearances, you realize just how special he is.
Paolino: a prominent figure in Catania's nightlife
Wandering around the city center, you might bump into him on the street or in a bar with his handkerchief in his hand, which he constantly fiddles with. As mentioned, his main characteristic is that he loves everyone who approaches him, without ever skimping. hugs, kisses and caresses.
Not much is known about his private life; he apparently lives with a relative who manages his disability pension, but his friends don't care; every time he goes into a bar, there's a party. He's often found eating arancini, sweets, or drinking soft drinks offered by the bar just to enjoy his company; even better if it's offered by a beautiful girl; after all, every self-respecting star is also a bit of a Latin lover. anything to make him happy, being able to cuddle him and give him back at least some of the affection he gives.
If during the day you can find him in some bar, it is certain that at nightfall, when the air is filled with the clinking of glasses in celebration, you will find him in the alleys of Massimo Theater Square, where he usually entertains his patrons in the evenings. The importance and fame achieved by our great little Paolino becomes clear if one thinks of the event organized in 2015 on the occasion of his sixtieth birthday.
A group of local entrepreneurs have decided to commit themselves to celebrating such a noble figure, making their own resources available. Among these, we recall: Valerio D'Urso who kindly consented to the use of his party photos. The evening, needless to say, was a success and culminated with the delivery of his gift, a stereo, which Paolino can now enjoy dancing to his favorite songs. But this is only a small gesture compared to the immeasurable amount of joy he brings to all of us every day. citizens of Catania.
