by Reiley Walsh
Visiting Florence on April 25th and noticing that many things are closed and many festivities happening? April 25th is a day that is recognized all throughout Italy. It is the day that Italy celebrates Liberation Day. In Italy, Liberation day is the day the country was liberated from Nazi occupation and the Fascist regime.
What is Liberation Day?
Liberation day became an official holiday in 1949, only a few years after Liberation day occurred. April 25th is recognized as the official day as it was on April 25th, 1945 the Italian Resistance and Allied forces had a turning point in the war. This turning point included taking over major cities in the north and ending the 23 year dictatorship that Italy was facing. It was the beginning of the transition from dictatorship in Italy to a democratic system and the day is a symbol of victory.
In August of 1944, as the Nazis were retreating from Florence they blew up every bridge in the city that crosses over the Arno River, except for the Ponte Vecchio. This day feels precious in Florence as the city was almost lost. The city of Florence is also especially proud on this day because the citizens started an uprising before the Allied troops arrived in the city.
On Liberation day, you may see the streets filled with people. There are many festive events that take place including parades and ceremonies. The streets are filled with people celebrating and you may see an increase of Italian flags that day and the days surrounding it.
What is happening on Liberation Day?
Wondering what will be happening in Florence on April 25th? First, there are parades that are happening including a procession from Piazza dell’Unità Italiana to Piazza della Signoria. Before the procession begins, there is a ceremony at Piazza dell’Unità Italiana where a wreath is laid to honor the fallen. Typically you will find performances by brass bands to celebrate the day. You will also be able to view the Gonfalone around the city and at ceremonies throughout the day. The Gonfalone is the official historic flag of Florence.
Museums in Florence will be free on April 25th; including the Uffizi Gallery and Academia Gallery. This is a great time to explore all the museums that you have been wanting to visit. Although this is great; be aware that the lines to the big museums will be long and they will have a long wait. Instead visit some of the smaller museums that you have been wanting to visit.
Many people know of the famous song “Bella Ciao,” but not everyone knows of the history behind it. The original version was created in the late 18th century, but in the 1940’s a new version of the song came out and this was the Partisan version. The Partisan version was adapted to protest against Nazi occupation during World War II. This song became the anthem of the Italian resistance during World War II and the song was to reflect on the struggle of the fighters. The Partisan version is the version that is most commonly played today. “Bella Ciao” is a protest song that is shown as an anthem of finding freedom.
How to Spend Liberation Day Like a Local:
Typically after ceremonies that happen, many Italians will head to the parks to spend time together. Grab food for a spring picnic and head to the Cascine Park or the Boboli Gardens. Enjoy the nature that the city has to offer and take in the beautiful views. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the streets of Florence with the locals head over to Oltrarno. The “Left Bank” of Florence typically has the most authentic celebrations with live music and lunch outdoors.
