Italian Holidays - Liberation Day from Fascism (Festa della Liberazione)

Liberation Day from Fascism is a national holiday in Italy. In 1945, namely on April 25, Benito Mussolini, being a fascist dictator, fled from Milan. From then on, Italy began its struggle for democracy. In April of the same year, a general strike broke out in the region of Northern Italy, and at the same time an armed uprising. Considering the fact that Italy was still occupied by the Germans, the Italians were able to liberate hundreds of cities in the country even before the arrival of the Allies. This became possible thanks to the bloody battles in which rebels and partisans took part. It was April 25 that marked the beginning of the general liberation movement. Because of this, the day was declared a national holiday. In addition, the uprising contributed to saving Italy’s potential regarding the country’s industry from the destruction of the Nazi troops. Thanks to this, the preconditions were laid for the subsequent consolidation of forces. Two days later, Mussolini was captured by Italian partisans, and the next day (April 28) he was executed along with his comrades. Their bodies were later presented hanged in a square in Milan. Since Hitler committed suicide on April 30, there is a version that he chose this type of death because he was afraid of suffering Benito’s fate. Every year, commemorative events are held throughout the country, gathering partisans and war veterans. On this day, the country's highest officials lay commemorative wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This date is considered a symbol of resistance and liberation, marking the fact that feelings of patriotism prevail over tyranny. Italians sacredly honor the memory of heroes and remember with horror the days gone by. On this day, the Holocaust Museum, located in Rome on the site of Mussolini's former residence, becomes the epicenter of visiting not only tourists, but also Italians themselves, who pay tribute to the victims of fascism and occupation.