Italy celebrated the 79th anniversary of the Republic today with a military parade in central Rome and aerial displays by the Frecce Tricolori. There were also tributes from top political leaders reaffirming national values of democracy, unity and freedom.
President Sergio Mattarella presided over the ceremony, laying a laurel wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Altar of the Fatherland. He was joined by Defence Minister Guido Crosetto, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Senate President Ignazio La Russa, Chamber of Deputies President Lorenzo Fontana, and Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri.
Crowds of Italians and tourists gathered along Via dei Fori Imperiali and Piazza Venezia to witness the morning ceremony and parade, which included elite military units, police forces, and the paratroopers of the Folgore Brigade. A female member of the sports parachuting division was among those who landed in front of the Imperial Forums, as the Frecce Tricolori painted the sky with a giant Italian flag using red, white, and green smoke trails.
President’s official message
The President’s official message, addressed to the Chief of Defence Staff Luciano Portolano, recalled the significance of the June 2, 1946 referendum. “Seventy-nine years ago, the Italian people decreed, with their vote, the birth of the Republic, at the culmination of a long journey that began with the war of Liberation,” Mattarella wrote. “With the referendum, Italians chose to continue on a path towards the affirmation of values of freedom, democracy and peace.”
Mattarella also praised the armed forces for their role in defending the Republic’s founding values both at home and internationally. “The Republic is grateful for their commitment… in a reality that presents growing threats that solicit solidarity and cooperation in Europe and the Atlantic.”
Prime Minister Meloni echoed this sentiment on social media. “June 2 reminds us who we are: a proud people, capable of rising again after the hardest trials. Celebrating Italy today means honouring those who gave their lives to defend it, and those who serve it every day with courage and silent pride. Long live Italy!”
Senate President Ignazio La Russa called June 2 “a day to celebrate popular sovereignty, the Constitution, the unity of the Nation and the pride of being Italian.” Chamber of Deputies President Lorenzo Fontana highlighted the importance of the 1946 vote in extending political rights to women. Twenty-one women were elected to the Constituent Assembly that year.
Defence Minister warns against complacency
Defence Minister Guido Crosetto warned against complacency in a world facing growing instability. “We must abandon the illusion of a peace guaranteed forever,” he said. “Defending also means protecting those who are weaker, who dream of a fairer tomorrow. This is the highest mission of the Defence.”
Crosetto thanked service members for their commitment to Italy and to its future. “Serving the Fatherland means building a safe, stable future full of opportunities. This is why I want to thank you, one by one, for your service.”
The celebrations concluded with the Italian national anthem, performed by the band of the Fourth Cavalry Regiment. The Frecce Tricolori’s final flypast marked the end of the official programme.
Republic Day commemorates the result of the 1946 referendum, in which Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a republic after World War II. It remains one of the most important dates on the national calendar.
