On June 2, we celebrate the Italian Republic Day, one of the most important civil anniversaries in our country. On this date, in 1946, millions of Italians were called to the polls to decide, through a referendum, the form of the State after the fall of fascism and the end of the Second World War. The outcome was historic: the Italian Republic was born, putting an end to the Savoy monarchy.
📍 Veneto and the 1946 referendum
In the institutional referendum, Veneto voted by a clear majority for the Monarchy: a figure that contrasts with the national result, which saw the Republic prevail with about 54%. In many provinces of Veneto – in particular in Vicenza, Verona and Padua – loyalty to the Crown was still strong, also due to the historical and cultural legacy of the Kingdom of Italy.
Despite this, Veneto has always played a central role in the construction of the Italian Republic, contributing with political, partisan and institutional figures to the democratic rebirth of the country.
🇮🇹 Ceremonies and celebrations in Veneto
Today, throughout Veneto, June 2 is celebrated with:
raising of the flag and laying of wreaths at the monuments to the fallen
official speeches by civil and military authorities
cultural events and historical exhibitions, often organized in the town halls and main squares
concerts and parades with local bands and veterans’ associations
📖 A Venetian anecdote
A little-known episode concerns Bassano del Grappa, a city deeply affected by the war, where June 2, 1946 was experienced in a tense but hopeful climate. A group of former partisans organized a small spontaneous demonstration in Piazza Libertà with tricolor flags hand-sewn by the women of the town. It was a simple gesture but full of meaning: the freedom just achieved needed to be cultivated also through symbols and memory.
