June 2nd is the celebration of the Republic of Rome, and lucky us we got to be here for it! This festival (or festa) celebrates the day the people of Rome voted to end the monarchy and become a republic. There is a ceremony- the laying of the wreath-and a parade to follow. It ironically is held outside this big white building (below) which is a fascist monument built by Mussolini. It's name is the equivalent of "the tomb of the unknown soldier" in english.
The ceremony was pretty cool! The soldiers were all dressed in uniform, which includes a helmet that looks like it has long hair coming out of it. haha. I also got to see the president of Italy! (although I didn't get a picture :( ) and I got to shake this important looking guys hand. (below) Still haven't figured out who he is yet....
A couple days before this I went with exploring with another student from the U and we went inside this building. It was a military museum. There were a lot of busts of old men... and some very cool artifacts, but best of all there was access to the roof of the building! B-E-A-utiful view :)
I'm glad I got to experience this celebration, it was definitely an interesting experience. I was wedged in between a couple Italian families while watching and it was interesting to observe their reactions. They sang along with the music, and clapped when certain important people would go by, and brought their kids along to see the "parade". This is starkly contrasted by some other Italian's views such as the dislike of the building itself, and the disappointment in the Italian government. Overall I was lucky to have had the opportunity to be there. :)
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