ROME, June 15 (Xinhua) -- Rome on Monday marked the 100th anniversary of the birth of Italian cinema legend Alberto Sordi, with tributes from his peers, political leaders, and a street artist.

Sordi, who died in 2003, may have been Italy's most beloved cinema figure, starring in more than 150 films in a career that spanned nearly seven decades, from the 1930s to the 1990s.

A famous scene from the 1954 comedy classic "Un Americano a Roma" (An American in Rome) featured Sordi trying to fit a huge forkful of spaghetti into his mouth in a single bite. Photos of that scene became such a cultural touchstone that they are still a common sight hanging on the walls of traditional Roman eateries.

Sordi is also known for playing comedic roles and some dramatic parts in numerous films.

On Monday, many of Italy's best-known actors and President Sergio Mattarella gave tributes to Sordi.

Mattarella said that a sense of nostalgia has added to Sordi's legacy. "Italy appreciates Sordi even more now than at the height of his career," said the president.

Street artist Harry Greb also honored Sordi Monday, with a mural of the late actor driving a motorcycle -- a scene from "Un Americano a Roma" -- with current Rome Mayor Virginia Raggi as a passenger.

An exhibit honoring Sordi would have been open Monday, but was delayed because of the coronavirus outbreak. The "Alberto Sordi: 1920-2020" exhibit, set in his Roman villa, will open in September. Enditem

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