A Roman poet, Virgil wrote the Roman Empire’s national epic poem, the Aeneid. Dedicated on Columbus Day 1930, Virgil’s bust sits atop a column from the Roman forum, a gift from the Mussolini’s Italy. As the Italian Ambassador read at dedication, “By honoring Virgil, Cleveland honors herself. Rome, capital of Latinity and jealous custodian of Latin culture, has appreciated the noble gift of this city.