When Pier Forlano says he enjoys the vibrant atmosphere of Philadelphia, he’s speaking as someone who has extensive experience living in great cities. A career diplomat, Forlano, 56, has traveled the world in the service of the Italian government for more than three decades, serving at embassies in Bulgaria, Malta, South Africa and Australia. His current post is Consul General of Italy in Philadelphia, which makes him a cultural and economic liaison between his homeland and the United States.

Forlano came to Philadelphia in August of 2017 and works out of a 10th-floor office overlooking Independence Mall. The services of the consulate include issuing passports and visas, helping Italian nationals vote in political elections, promoting international business partnerships and even providing assistance to passing naval vessels.