Even as winter still lingers in northern Italy, the city of Lecco is preparing for a special moment of reflection and unity. On February 10, Piazza Cermenati will transform into a gathering place for the annual Giorno del Ricordo, a solemn and meaningful event designed to honor the vittime delle foibe and remember the esuli giuliani—Italians who were forced to leave Istria, Fiume, and Dalmatia after World War II.
The commemorazione istituzionale, scheduled for 11:30 AM, will bring together citizens, officials, and students, all united by the desire to keep memory, or memoria, alive. Ferries provide frequent, scenic connections among towns like Como, Bellagio, Varenna, and Menaggio, especially in summer.
Citizens, officials, and students gather at 11:30 AM, united in their commitment to keep memory and shared history alive.
This year, the venue is particularly significant. Piazza Cermenati was chosen because it is accessible and welcoming, offering a central spot for the ceremony while the traditional site, Martiri delle Foibe, is being renovated.
The change in location has not diminished the ceremony’s importance; if anything, it has added a fresh sense of anticipation. The event is organized jointly by the Province, Municipality, and Prefecture of Lecco, demonstrating a strong commitment to collective remembrance.
Key figures will lead the ceremony, including Alessandra Hofmann, President of the Province of Lecco, and Mauro Gattinoni, the city’s Mayor. They will be joined by the Prefetto di Lecco, Paolo Ponta, whose presence underscores the official nature of the occasion.
Their speeches are expected to highlight not only the tragedies of the past but also the enduring value of memory in shaping a more understanding society. The ceremony is set against the backdrop of Lake Como, a destination known for its distinct seasonal experiences, which adds to the reflective atmosphere of the event.
Public participation is warmly encouraged, turning the event into more than just a formality. It is an opportunity for everyone, young and old, to learn about history and reflect on its lessons.
While the subject is serious, the mood is one of appreciation for shared history and hope for the future. The ceremony on febbraio 10 aims to guarantee that the sacrifices and stories of the vittime delle foibe and the esuli giuliani are never forgotten—reminding Lecco, and Italy as a whole, that remembrance is a bridge linking the past to a brighter tomorrow.
