Gina Lollobrigida and guest at the annual Red Cross Ball inside the Salles de Etoiles. Monte Carlo, Monaco - 04.08.06

The 79-year-old star, referred to as the most beautiful woman in the world in her youth, met Spanish husband-to-be JAVIER RIGAU Y RAFOLS at a party in Monte Carlo and the two have been dating for 22 years.

The star, who is affectionately known as LA LOLLO in Italy, says, "We wanted for this to happen sooner, but it just wasn't possible."

The couple will tie the knot in New York City before the end of the year (06).

It will be the COME SEPTEMBER star's second marriage. She was divorced in 1971 from Yugoslavian-born doctor MILKO SKOFIC.

Italian media outlets have extensively reported on the couple upcoming nuptials.

She adds, "They have gone mad here in Italy! I didn't think I was going to set off such a bomb!"

Source: WENN