Happy Republic Day, Italy!

Rome is bustling today.  June 2, 2013 marks Festa della Repubblica, a national holiday with outstanding celebrations to commemorate the founding of The Republic of Italy in 1946. 

The Eternal City attracts visitors ready to revel in an exceptional military parade honoring the anniversary of the declaration of the Italian Republic.  The Carabinieri, military police of Italy, parade through to Piazza Venezia overseen by Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Giorgio Napolitano, The President of Italy.  Prominent political and military officials attend many of the events in Rome.

Notable traditions of Republic Day include a laying of the wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the inception to the day's festivities.  Look up in the sky, not for fireworks, but to view Frecce Tricolori, a flyover by the nine Italian Air Force aircraft that leave streaks of green, white, and red colored smoke to denote the Italian Flag.  Listen to various military bands perform live in Palazzo del Quirinale, the gardens of the seat of the president, open to the public. 

Napolitano has broached the typical traditions with a scaled back parade this year in the name of austerity.  "I appreciate the simplicity of the celebrations," said Napolitano who also highlighted reducing the costs to the essential and shifted focus to the pride of the patrons in attendance honoring the theme "Armed Forces in the service of the country."  John Kerry, US Secretary of State, acknowledged in writing the respectful U.S-Italy alliance, goals, and achievements concluding, "It is in the spirit of this enduring partnership and friendship that I extend to all Italians my sincere best wishes on this 67th anniversary of Republic Day."

Throughout Italy there are a host of several other parties and parades to honor the day.  Festa della Repubblica propels the Italians into festival mode for the busy season ahead.  Enjoy Republic Day! 



Italian President Giorgio Napolitano