Il 2 giugno la Repubblica Italiana celebra il 72° anniversario della nascita della nostra nazione attraverso il referendum istituzionale indetto per la prima volta a suffragio universale il 2 e il 3 giugno 1946, con il quale gli italiani vennero chiamati alle urne per esprimersi su quale forma di governo, monarchia o repubblica, dare al Paese, in seguito alla caduta del fascismo ed all’esilio dei discendenti maschi della casa Savoia. La Repubblica, che prevalse sulla monarchia, fu scelta come forma di governo ed i deputati vennero eletti all’Assemblea Costituente che l’anno successivo approvò la Costituzione, da quel momento fondamento e simbolo della democrazia del Paese, nonché guida ed ispirazione alla ricostruzione morale ed istituzionale dell’Italia. Il 2 giugno, milioni di italiani in patria e all’estero si fermeranno per commemorare solennemente il significato di un evento che, forse ormai lontano nel tempo, è ancora fortemente sentito da tutti i cittadini.
Each year on June 2, the Italian people celebrate Republic Day. Known as Festa della Repubblica in Italy, the day commemorates the time in which Italy became a republic after the end of its monarchy. This day celebrates both the birth of the new Italian nation and the fall of fascism after WWII. Most businesses are closed, but celebrations and events still take place to keep Italian residents busy with merriment and commemoration.
Republic Day has a couple of military-themed events that take place within Rome. For example, an elaborate military parade occurs on this day. The Italian President always attends and presides over the parade which occurs on the Via dei Fori Imperiali, a populated street within the center of Rome that runs from the Piazza Venezia to the famous Colosseum. During the parade, the laying of a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier takes place at the Altare della Patria.
Bands and performers from several military forces play music in the Quirinal Palace (Palazzo del Quirinale) as well. The historic location and gorgeous architecture makes for a wondrous display for those wishing to hear the music while observing the beauty of Italy. The building itself is a wonder to look at, including bright white walls and the Italian flag billowing proudly above.
One of the most spectacular ways to celebrate Republic Day is to watch the aerial show that takes place in Rome. Every year, the Frecce Tricolori performs daring acrobatics, including nine planes trailing red, white and green smoke to represent the Italian flag. The Frecce Tricolori (meaning Tricolor Arrows) is an aerobatic demonstration team that was formed in 1961. There are more than 30 events planned for the Frecce Tricolori starting on May 1 and the Republic Day celebration is just one of many daring performances showcased for their adoring crowds.
The history of Italy is rich with accomplishments, triumphs, failures, and much more. Republic Day allows those in Italy and those all over the world to take a peek into Italy’s interesting history, while also being entertained by parades, music and more. This day is sure to spark curiosity in the minds of those who love everything Italian and the day will always be known as a triumph for Italy.
