Gianni (born Giandomenico) Patrizi was a geographer atypical, which has played an important role in Italian Geography of the second half of the twentieth century. Precocious and brilliant student of one of the most prestigious geographical schools in Italy, he preferred to devote himself to teaching in schools rather than pursue a career in the public university. However, it was a professor for over thirty years at a private university. At the same time actively collaborated with the Association of the Italian Teachers of Geography (AIIG) for the promotion and the improvement of the teaching of geography, and for a quarter of a century he was contributor to encyclopedias of great importance. In addition, and perhaps most importantly, by the mid-fifties to 2005 was in essence the animator of this «Bollettino della Società Geografica Italiana». In his many activities, Gianni Patrizi stood out for accuracy, consistency, rigor, fairness, critical thinking, independence, frankness, and for its unique expertise in the geographical disciplines (and in many other fields); and for its great intellectual curiosity, combined with a systematic and deep respect for the intellectual and scientific views other than his own opinions. His colleagues, students and collaborators reminisce Gianni Patrizi as an important reference professional and intellectual, as well as sensitive and caring friend. -