A 23-year-old Italian man has been sentenced to life in prison after admitting to stabbing his ex-girlfriend in a closely watched case that sparked public outcry.

A judge in Italy has sentenced a 23-year-old man to life in prison for the stabbing murder of his former girlfriend, a heinous act of femicide that has put violence against women in the spotlight in this country.

Turetta, who had fled by car to Germany, confessed to the murder after his arrest and extradition to Italy. The prosecution had asked for a life sentence for the 22-year-old man, while the defence admitted his guilt but pleaded for a more lenient ruling.