On 12 December 1969, one of the most shocking events in modern Italian history occurred – the Piazza Fontana bombing. This devastating attack marked the beginning of a turbulent period in Italy, characterised by political strife, violence, and social unrest.
The bombing took place at Milan’s Banco Nazionale del Lavoro, located in Piazza Fontana, a central and busy square in Milan. At 4:37 pm, just as the financial district was bustling with commuters and workers, a powerful explosion tore through the bank. The attack resulted in 17 deaths and left 88 people injured, shaking the nation and leaving scars that would last for decades.
The Immediate Aftermath
The investigation into the bombing was swift and chaotic. Initially, the authorities arrested left-wing activists, suspecting anarchist groups to be involved. This led to numerous interrogations and the infamous “false confessions” during the investigation. Despite the accusations against leftist groups, it soon became apparent the bombing was linked to wider, more complex socio-political factors.
The investigation became emblematic of Italy’s “Years of Lead” (Anni di Piombo), a period of intense social and political violence that spanned the late 1960s through the 1980s. Numerous groups, both far-left and far-right, engaged in violent actions as Italy struggled with labour unrest, economic instability, and shifting political ideologies.
Political Ramifications
Although the bombing investigation initially targeted leftist groups, investigations later uncovered the involvement of far-right groups. The Piazza Fontana bombing became a symbol of the so-called strategy of tension (strategia della tensione), a term used to describe coordinated efforts by extremist groups or state apparatus to destabilise the political system by creating fear and chaos.
The bombing brought Italy to a turning point, highlighting significant divisions within the nation. It forced the government and its institutions to confront questions about political extremism, law enforcement, and governance. However, the investigation was deeply flawed, with wrongful accusations leading to years of mistrust between the state and its citizens.
A Legacy of Violence
The Piazza Fontana bombing did not stand alone. In its wake, Italy saw a series of violent incidents linked to political extremism. This included a series of bombings, assassinations, and militant activity in the years to come. These events fuelled divisions in Italian society and left a lasting impact on Italy’s modern political landscape.
Over time, the bombing and its aftermath shaped Italy’s approach to counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and political reform. Many viewed the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extremism, instability, and political manipulation.
Related article: On this day in history: Bologna Station bombing
Remembering the Victims
Today, the events of 12 December 1969 remain a painful reminder of the consequences of violence and political instability. Memorials are dedicated to the victims of Piazza Fontana, ensuring their memory is preserved and their lives honoured.
President Sergio Mattarella marked the 55th anniversary of the Piazza Fontana bombing, describing the attack as a “terrible trial” for Italians. He spoke of how the tragedy united the nation in defending constitutional values against terrorism.
In his statement, President Mattarella said: “The massacre which, 55 years ago, hit Milan, in Piazza Fontana, was an expression of the subversive attempt to destabilize our democracy, giving institutions an authoritarian twist.”
Mattarella added that the bombing left “a wound in the life and conscience of our community, a laceration in national history.”
