Italy Commemorates National Unity and Armed Forces Day 2025 with Nationwide Ceremonies

Nationwide Observance of National Unity and Armed Forces Day

Italy solemnly observed National Unity and Armed Forces Day (Giornata dell'Unità Nazionale e delle Forze Armate) on November 4, 2025, with a series of ceremonies held across the country. The annual observance commemorates Italy's victory in World War I and the completion of its national unification, marked by the Armistice of Villa Giusti in 1918. The day also serves to honor the nation's Armed Forces and remember the sacrifices of fallen soldiers.

The significance of the day was underscored by the participation of top government officials in key events, reflecting a tradition that dates back to 1919. The holiday, re-established as a national observance by Law no. 27 of March 1, 2024, saw a renewed focus on national identity and military valor.

President Mattarella Leads Commemorations in Rome and Ancona

In Rome, President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella led the central commemorations. He laid a solemn laurel wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier (Milite Ignoto) located at the Altare della Patria (Vittoriano). Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was also in attendance at this significant ceremony.

Later in the day, President Mattarella traveled to Ancona, where he presided over a ceremony at the city's Ancient Port. This event featured military honors, a review of the deployed forces, institutional speeches, and the awarding of honors and decorations of the Military Order of Italy to war flags.

Call for European Defense Amidst Global Challenges

In his traditional message to Defense Minister Guido Crosetto, President Sergio Mattarella highlighted the contemporary relevance of the Armed Forces. He stressed the urgent need for a 'common European defense force,' citing the emergence of new conflicts in Europe and the Mediterranean, particularly the 'bloody conflict triggered by the aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine.' Mattarella emphasized that such a force, in close cooperation with the Atlantic Alliance, would be an instrument of security for both Italy and Europe. He also acknowledged the 'untiring work of the Armed Forces throughout the arc of crises in the enlarged Mediterranean.'

Regional Celebrations and Public Engagement

Beyond the capital, cities and towns across Italy hosted their own commemorative events. These included:

• Pavia: A program featuring a moment of reflection at the Cimitero Maggiore, a wreath-laying ceremony, a Holy Mass, and an official ceremony in Piazza Italia.
• Verbania Pallanza: A provincial ceremony at the Basilica of San Leonardo and the 'Troubetzkoy' Monument to the Fallen of WWI, including the reading of messages from the President and Minister of Defense.
• Bassano del Grappa: Celebrations that involved a procession, a Mass, and wreath-laying ceremonies.
• Caorle: Events such as a gathering, flag-raising, Holy Mass, and a wreath-laying ceremony.
• Pisa: Ceremonies promoted by the Municipality, Province, Prefecture, and local military garrisons.

In a gesture to public engagement, state museums and archaeological parks were open for free on November 4th. Additionally, the 'Defense Village' at the Circus Maximus in Rome, running from November 1st to 4th, offered demonstrations and exhibitions, allowing citizens to interact with the Armed Forces.