Fans, singers, leaders hail Pavarotti

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2007

MODENA, Italy (AFP) — The body of legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti was lying in state Friday in the cathedral in his hometown Modena, as the world paid tribute to the singer whose crossover appeal made him a global superstar.

Hailed by many as the greatest tenor of his generation, Pavarotti, 71, died early Thursday at his villa near the northern city of Modena after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

His casket was placed in the cathedral on Thursday evening.

Pavarotti's wife, Nicoletta, who was at the cathedral, wept as about 1,000 mourners arrived to pay homage to the opera singer.

The public will be admitted until Saturday morning, ahead of the funeral later in the day.

Modena Mayor Giorgio Pighi said Italian Prime Minister Romano...