Rome: Princess Elettra Marconi has marked the 95th anniversary of Vatican Radio with words of affection and gratitude, recalling the deep faith and dedication of her father, Guglielmo Marconi, who founded the broadcaster in 1931 at the request of Pope Pius XI.
Speaking from her family apartment in Via Condotti in Rome, a place filled with memories of her father’s work, Princess Elettra described the anniversary as an extremely important date in her life. It was here that Marconi once pressed a button to illuminate the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, a powerful symbol of how radio waves could connect distant parts of the world.
She said the inauguration of Vatican Radio on February 12, 1931, was one of the most moving moments in her father’s life. According to her, Marconi had strong faith in God and great admiration for Pope Pius XI. She recalled that the Pope himself had a curious and scientific mind, always eager to understand new inventions and technological discoveries.
Marconi personally designed and built the radio station inside the Vatican. Princess Elettra said her father devoted himself completely to the project and stayed in Rome for several consecutive months, something unusual for a man who constantly traveled between cities such as London and New York. Every day, he went to the Vatican to oversee the progress of the work. She remembered how Pope Pius XI would walk in the Vatican gardens to follow the construction and encourage the team.
Princess Elettra has dedicated her life to preserving and promoting her father’s legacy. She described this mission as both a duty and a joy. Over the years, she has traveled widely, visiting countries including Brazil, Australia, the United States, China, Japan and Taiwan. She said she wanted to personally thank people around the world for their appreciation of her father’s invention, which she believes united nations through communication.
As radio celebrates its anniversary, the occasion comes just before World Radio Day, observed by UNESCO on February 13. This year’s theme focuses on artificial intelligence, reminding the world that artificial intelligence is a tool and not a voice. Princess Elettra said she believes artificial intelligence can be positive but must be carefully controlled and used responsibly.
She sent her affection and gratitude to those who work at Vatican Radio today, encouraging them to continue their mission with dedication and respect for the values on which the broadcaster was founded. She also expressed a special wish that young people be inspired by her father’s passion for electromagnetic waves and scientific discovery.
When asked whether radio can still be trusted, she gave a clear answer. Yes, she said, more than anything else. In her view, radio remains extremely important because news comes directly through it.
Ending with a personal reflection, Princess Elettra spoke of her strong faith in God and her hope that people everywhere may live in peace and with clear consciences.