Rome, 30/05/2018
The referendum
The Italian Republic Day date originates from the outcome of the 1946 referendum and marks the beginning of the Republic, and the consequent end of the Kingdom of Italy, which was in power since 1861.
The 1946 referendum was an historical event for at least three reasons. Firstly, because it called the Italians to the polls for the first time after 22 years of fascist dictatorship. Secondly, because it was the first universal suffrage in the Italian history. Women were finally called to the poll and turned out en masse: 13 million (versus 12 million men). Almost 90% of the electorate voted leggi l’articolo.
The third and most important reason for this historical date is obviously its outcome: Republic and Democracy. The Savoy royal family was exonerated from power and Italy abolished Monarchy.
On the same occasion the Italian citizens also elected the Constituent Assembly members, whom, during their first meeting, named Enrico De Nicola as the first President of the Italian Republic. (Link in Italian)
The celebrations
To these days June 2nd is the Republic Day, which is Italy’s most important National Day and it is celebrated all over the country. All Great Offices of the State take part to its most solemn service, held in Rome.
The ceremony starts when the President of the Republic offers flowers to the Unknown Soldier at the Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia. The National Anthem follows, immediately after the overflying by Frecce Tricolori, the aerobatic team of Aeronautica Militare, the Italian Air Force.
All Italian Armed Forces, Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri, Police Forces the Fire Fighters, the Civil Protection Department, and the Red Cross, then flow in a military parade along Via dei Fori Imperiali, ending the celebrations.
The 2018 Italian Republic Day Celebrations agenda
- h. 9:15 Altare della Patria – The President of the Italian Republic, Mr. Sergio Mattarella, offers a flower wreath to the Unknown Soldier.
- h. 10:00 Fori Imperiali – All Italian Police Forces convey for a military parade.
- h. 15:00/19:00 Palazzo del Quirinale – Special opening of the Presidential Palace Gardens and musical performances by the Italian Armed Forces.
(Source: Quirinale)
Read more about Italian festivities and celebrations
The Easy Diplomacy Team
