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MILAN (AP) - Italian-born French designer Pierre Cardin is being honored by his native Veneto region for his artistic achievements and his ambitious plan to build a glass skyscraper to revitalize Venice's industrial port.
Cardin said by phone Monday that he intends his 'Palace of Light" to be a'livable sculpture." He expects final approval shortly for the project that will house a fashion university, luxury hotels and shops.
Cardin, who turned 90 in July, was born Pietro Cardin north of Venice and moved to France as a child. He described himself `'as a true Italian, even if I live in Paris. Without Paris, there would be no Pierre Cardin."
The Lion of Veneto award is being presented Monday with a ceremony and concert at Venice's La Fenice opera house.
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