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We do so like to see antiquity reveal itself in modernity–it’s one of the things that makes Rome such an intriguing city.  And, we know, that many eCoolers enjoy the same.

So, we thought you’d be keen to hear about a debate set off by Vittorio Sgarbi, Italian art critic, politician, cultural commentator and TV personality and by Maurizio Costanzo, Italian television host and journalist.  Costanzo has suggested that a street in Rome be named for the Roman Emperor Nero and Sgarbi has taken up his cause.  While their are streets named for many other emperors already, Nero’s notoriety, earned in part (and only in part) for the charge that he burned the city to increase his own landholdings, has prevented his eponymous entry into the plan of modern Rome.  Sgarbi argues that “a negative legend has kept one of Rome’s great politicians from having his own street.”

The newspaper La Repubblica has decided to give modern Romans (and you) a voice in the debate.  They’re currently running a survey as to whether or not the name Nero should be emblazoned on a street sign.  So click here to register your own vote in the Via Nerone debate.

And, if you find yourself coming down on the side of Nero in this conversation, you may want to advertise your sentiments with a “Come On Baby Light My Fire” shirt that sports the design shown above.  You can pick one up at the iDC City Shop.