by Olivia Bell a month ago
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Table of contents
- 1. Italy's big day: how it all began
- 2. Rome’s grand spectacle
- 3. The program of Republic Day in Rome 2024
- 4. What else to do on Italy's Republic Day?
- 5. Celebrate like a local in Rome
- Start with Caprese salad at Hostaria Farnese
- Then fuel up with pizza at Alle Carrette
- Go on with pasta and good wine at Enoteca Corsi
- Finish off with the best espresso in Rome
- And pamper yourself with the best gelato in Rome
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What: Italy's Republic Day – Festa della Repubblica
When: June 2, 2024
Why: Join in the festivities of one of Italy's most important and lively celebrations
The first month of the long-awaited summer kicks off in Italy with a grandest celebration – Festa della Repubblica. On this day, the entire country commemorates its choice made almost 80 years ago, so you can only imagine the vibrant atmosphere on the streets, flooded with thousands of cheerful citizens and just as many curious tourists.
Plus, since food and wine are almost central elements of any entertainment in Italy, look forward to some delicious adventures as well. Stay tuned as we unveil the perfect dish to savor on this day, along with a guide to a few hidden gems at the heart of the festivities. And get ready to discover everything awaiting you on Italy's Republic Day, so you won't miss a single event.
1. Italy's big day: how it all began
Electoral ballot of the 1946 Italian institutional referendum. Photo by unknown author, public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Once upon a time in 1946, Italians made a bold choice. They decided it was time for a change, voting to swap their monarchy for a republic. This wasn't just any old vote; it was a seismic shift that turned the page on centuries of royal rule and began a fresh chapter in Italy’s vibrant history. What’s more, it was the first time Italian women could cast their ballots, a huge leap towards universal suffrage. Thus, June 2 became a national holiday, celebrating the birth of the Italian Republic and marking a fresh start for democratic values and citizen involvement.
2. Rome’s grand spectacle
The best place to spend Republic Day is in Rome, where you will find the most vibrant and exciting events! Photo by Pe-Jo, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
June 2 is a day of celebration across Italy, marked by lively parades and festive receptions arranged by local authorities. Even Italian embassies worldwide join in, hosting ceremonies with Heads of State from their respective countries. Greetings pour in from leaders around the globe, emphasizing the international recognition of this special event. But Rome, the eternal city, pulls out all the stops for Republic Day.
3. The program ofRepublic Day in Rome 2024
The day begins with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Photo by Quirinale.it, via Wikimedia Commons
9.00 am – the opening ceremony
The festivities kick off in the morning on June 2 with a touching ceremony at the Vittoriano monument in Piazza Venezia. Here, at 09.15 am, after the flag-rising ceremony, the President of Italy and other dignitaries lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
10.00 am – the presidential parade
After the ceremony, the President, escorted by the Corazzieri on motorcycles, heads to Via di San Gregorio to review the parade formations. The parade begins with military personnel marching from the Colosseum, along via dei Fori Imperiali and to Piazza Venezia, saluting with their colors dipped, creating a breathtaking spectacle of discipline and pride.
The military parade and the flyover by fighter jets are simply unforgettable spectacles. Photo by Quirinale.it, via Wikimedia Commons
10.15 am – fighter jets’ airshow
Next up, the sky becomes a canvas for the Frecce Tricolori, Italy’s daredevil aerobatic team. These jets paint the sky with the green, white, and red of the national flag in a heart-stopping aerial display.
12.00 pm – open gardens and musical delights
In the afternoon, the Quirinal Palace gardens open to the public, offering a rare glimpse into the presidential residence. The air fills with music as bands from various military and police forces perform, adding to the festive atmosphere. This event is a unique opportunity for the public to enjoy the grandeur of Italy’s heritage.
12.30 pm – changing of the guard
Another highlight is the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Quirinal Palace, featuring the Corazzieri Regiment and the Fanfare of the Carabinieri Cavalry Regiment in their striking uniforms. This impressive display happens only on Republic Day, Tricolour Day (January 7), and National Unity and Armed Forces Day (November 4).
4. What else to do on Italy's Republic Day?
Do not leave the celebration early; wait for the grand finale fireworks. Photo by 板橋区Open Photo, licensed under CC BY 4.0
Join the citywide fiesta
On this day, the fun isn’t confined to official ceremonies. All across Rome, the spirit of celebration takes over. Flags flutter from buildings, and streets buzz with concerts, cultural events, and exhibitions. The historical sites and museums offer special programs or free entry, making it a day of leisure and discovery. From early morning to late at night, the city is alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and fireworks that light up the night sky in a dazzling finale. For the best views of it, head to the banks of the River Tiber or find a spot on one of Rome’s iconic hills.
Throughout the day, everyone strolls around, eats, drinks wine, and enjoys life. Photo by Diego Delso, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Take part in family fun
For many Italians, Republic Day is the perfect excuse for a family get-together. Parks and gardens become picnic spots where relatives and friends enjoy the warm June weather. Whether it’s a simple coffee break or a lavish barbecue, food is at the heart of the celebration. While most offices, shops, and government buildings are closed, charming osterias and cafés work tirelessly to feed the crowds of locals and tourists flooding the streets.
5.Celebrate like a local in Rome
The most patriotic salad in Italy is one that features the colors of the national flag. Photo by Bryony Elena on unsplash.com
While Festa della Repubblica doesn't have an official dish or dessert, there's a delightful way to honor this day with food. A fresh Caprese salad, made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, mirrors the colors of the Italian flag. This simple yet flavorful dish is a perfect way to celebrate Italy’s national pride and enjoy a taste of its gastronomic heritage. Below, we’ll share the best spots in Rome to enjoy an exceptional Caprese salad, along with a list of must-try dishes that will make you feel like a local during the country’s most important holiday.
Start with Caprese salad at Hostaria Farnese
Hostaria Farnese
#273 of 18118 restaurants in Rome, Italy
Via Dei Baullari, 109, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Closed until 12:15PM
Caprese salad
It's a national Italian salad that is very simple to cook. This starter's name comes from the Capri island and the ingredients reflect the colours of the Italian flag: green basil, white mozzarella and red tomatoes. Caprese salad is paired with arugula and is regarded as the most patriotic salad.
Best caprese salad in Rome restaurants
After the grand parade, make your way to one of Rome’s hidden gems – the old-school Hostaria Farnese. Tucked away in the alleys near Piazza Farnese, this cherished venue is often stumbled upon by chance. TheirCaprese salad is frequently hailed as divine in reviews, but it’s not the only standout on the menu. Every dish here, from pan-sautéed veal with sage and prosciutto to lasagna, bucatini, iconic puntarelle (chicory sprouts), and braised artichoke with mint, sparks an explosion of emotions. For some, it evokes childhood memories; for others, it’s simply the best meal they've ever had. Everything, including house wine, is made with love and honed over years of experience, and you'll just have to check it out for yourself.
Then fuel up with pizza at Alle Carrette
Alle Carrette
#92 of 8657 pizza restaurants in Rome, Italy
Via della Madonna dei Monti, 95, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Closed until 12PM
Pizza
Modern pizza was born in Naples, Italy, in 1889 when its precursor focaccia, a flatbread, was topped with tomatoes, mozarella and basil. The first pizza was cooked for Queen Margherita on her visit to Naples. The world's largest pizza was prepared in Rome in 2012. It was 13,580.28 square feet! By the way, it was gluten-free.
Best pizza in Rome restaurants
Just a stone's throw from the Roman Forum, Alle Carrette beckons as one of the prime spots to savor Italy's quintessential dish amidst the vibrant celebration. Here, pizzas are crafted in the age-old Roman tradition – boasting a thin, crisp crust with rustic edges and a medley of toppings. While we suggest indulging in the prosciutto or salami varieties, their menu offers a tantalizing array of options, with or without classic tomato sauce. But it's not justpizzas that steal the show; their fritti, featuring delights like zucchini blossoms and baby artichokes, paired with a carafe of house wine, elevate the experience. Plus, it's one of Monti's rare gems where you can relish al fresco dining year-round.
Go on with pasta and good wine at Enoteca Corsi
Enoteca Corsi
#97 of 15280 pubs & bars in Rome, Italy
Via del Gesù, 87/88, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Closed until 12PM
Pasta
Pasta is a type of Italian dish that is commonly made from unleavened dough of wheat flour. It is a versatile food that can be served in a variety of ways, such as in soups, salads, or as a main dish with sauces and other ingredients. It's a staple in many cuisines around the world due to its simplicity, delicious taste, and nutritional content.
Best pasta in Rome restaurants
After all the hustle and bustle of the holiday festivities, if you happen to find yourself near the Pantheon, take a stroll a couple of streets over to Enoteca Corsi, a charming spot with a history as impressive as its wine collection. Here, indulge in a satisfying meal starting with their perfectly cookedpasta – though there are only four options, each one is a culinary masterpiece. Then, treat yourself to a hearty meat dish like baked hunter's style rabbit or succulent beef stroganoff. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of Masseria Altemura Zinzula Rosé 2022, a delightful accompaniment to both your main course and the tempting selection of desserts, with chocolate custard mille-feuille being a standout option for those with a sweet tooth.
Finish off with the best espresso in Rome
Sant' Eustachio Caffè
#60 of 12802 cafes in Rome, Italy
Piazza di S. Eustachio, 82, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Closed until 7:30AM
Croissants
A buttery, flaky pastry with a golden crust. It is very popular for breakfast. Its texture is reached by wrapping dough with butter in layers and baking with a special technique called 'laminating'.
Best croissants in Rome restaurants
In the heart of Rome's historic center stands Sant' Eustachio Caffè, the oldest coffee roasting company established in 1938 on the site of a previous venue with a similar profile dating back to 1800. Many who have tried their espresso claim they've never tasted anything like it before – some speculate that the secret to its fantastic flavor and dense foam lies in the water the owners use or in their proprietary recipe. Regardless, with decades of experience and its proximity to all the popular landmarks, it's never empty here. However, the service is swift, and the bartenders' movements are precise, so you won't have to wait long. Be sure to pair your drink with a freshly baked croissant, some chocolate gianduiotti, and perhaps grab a couple of bags of beans to take home as souvenirs.
And pamper yourself with the best gelato in Rome
Gelateria del Teatro
#180 of 2484 restaurants with desserts in Rome, Italy
Lungotevere dei Vallati, 25, Rome, Lazio, Italy
Closed until 12PM
Gelato
It's traditional Italian ice cream acknowledged to be one of the best frozen desserts in the world. Gelato was introduced by the Italian chef in Paris in 1600. This dessert contains 3.25% milk and sugar. It has a lower percentage of fat and less air, that's why it boasts of a richer texture.
Best gelato in Rome restaurants
Nestled in a charming alley beneath a historic 13th-century staircase, a part of a former theater, Gelateria del Teatro offers a unique peek into the art of traditional Italian gelato-making. Visitors can witness the magic firsthand before savoring theirgelato in crispy waffle cones, either nestled in the cozy backyard or perched right on the steps amidst ancient walls. With a plethora of flavors to choose from – ranging from classic favorites to those infused with aromatic herbs or bursting with fruity delights – decision-making becomes a true challenge. Whether you opt for the decadent truffle, enticing fig and almond ricotta, or refreshing mint stracciatella, you're bound to come back for a second round. To complement your gelato experience, don't miss out on freshly baked treats and homemade chocolates, perfect for pairing with a steaming cup of coffee or enjoying on the go.
Republic Day isn’t just about looking back; it’s also about dreaming big for the future. It’s a reminder of Italy’s resilience and its commitment to unity and democracy. So, if you find yourself in Italy on June 2, join the fun and celebrate like an Italian – with gusto, joy, and a whole lot of heart!
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Chloe Reynolds (Guest) a month ago Request content removal
Wow, thanks for such a detailed rundown of Republic Day festivities in Rome and all the cool spots for grabbing a bite! This article was super helpful and informative!
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