#United States #New York City #Savoy Foundation #Pope Pius IX #Caroline Weber

Savoy Foundation's 19th Annual Lecture Series

The Savoy Foundation is set to host its highly anticipated 19th Annual Lecture Series on October 9, 2025, at an exclusive venue in New York City. This year's program, titled “Pope Pius IX and The Kingdom of Italy,” promises a blend of historical exploration and scholarly insight, featuring renowned historian Professor Caroline Weber as the guest speaker.

The Significance of Pope Pius IX

Pope Pius IX, who reigned from 1846 until his death in 1878, holds the distinction of being the longest-serving pope in history, second only to Saint Peter. His tenure was marked by significant political changes, culminating in the loss of papal temporal power when Rome fell to the Piedmontese army in September 1870. This pivotal moment in history saw the Vatican's influence diminish as the Kingdom of Italy emerged.

In her lecture, Professor Weber will delve into the intricate aspects of Pius IX's life and governance, emphasizing his complex relationship with the Royal House of Savoy. Utilizing original research amassed from Vatican archives, she will illustrate how Pius IX navigated the turbulent waters of modernity while remaining committed to the Church's traditions.

About Professor Caroline Weber

Professor Weber, who teaches French and Comparative Literature at Barnard College and Columbia University, is acclaimed for her book, “Proust's Duchess,” which was recognized with the French Heritage Society Book Prize and was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Her distinguished career includes prestigious fellowships including the Guggenheim Fellowship and a writer-in-residence position at Edith Wharton's estate. Currently, she is working on a group biography of 19th-century royals who faced the dramatic shifts of their time, including Pius IX.

The Royal House of Savoy: A Historical Background

The Royal House of Savoy boasts a rich history as one of the oldest dynasties in the world, with its origins tracing back over a thousand years. The Savoy Orders, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, have significantly marked European history, notably ruling various territories in what is now modern-day Italy, France, and Switzerland.

In the 1940s, the Kingdom of Italy was dissolved, but the legacy of the Savoy family persists, reflected in the enduring charitable works supported by its current members. H.R.H. Prince Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy, the current head, continues to uphold the royal traditions while steering the Orders towards modern humanitarian initiatives.

The Mission of the American Foundation of Savoy Orders

Based in New York City, the American Foundation of Savoy Orders is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization. It dedicates its efforts to supporting medical, educational, and humanitarian causes across the globe, focusing particularly on aiding U.S. veterans and efforts to assist children and families in need. The foundation's recent initiative, “Chivalry for Children's Causes,” exemplifies its commitment to addressing issues impacting youth and families living in poverty.

Conclusion

The upcoming lecture by Professor Caroline Weber is not only an exploration of a significant historical figure but also a celebration of the ongoing commitment of the Savoy Foundation to education and charitable works. Attendees can look forward to an engaging evening that intertwines history, literature, and a noble legacy committed to making a difference in the world. For more information regarding the lecture series, please visit www.savoy-usa.org.