interviews: Sophie Renhuldt
This morning, February 6th, at the Conference Hall of the Museum of Oriental Art, the Municipality of Trieste, in collaboration with the Committee for the Martyrs of the Foibe, unveiled the lineup of events for the 2024 Day of Remembrance. This year holds added significance as it marks the twentieth anniversary of its founding law (L. 30/2004).
Councilor Giorgio Rossi, responsible for Cultural and Tourism Policies, along with Paolo Sardos Albertini, president of the National League and the Committee for the Martyrs of the Foibe, outlined the initiatives.
The Day of Remembrance, observed annually on February 10th, commemorates the Victims of the Foibe, the Istrian, Fiuman, Julian, and Dalmatian Exodus, and the events of the eastern border. Established in 2004, it serves as a moment of reflection on a significant chapter of the twentieth century.
The chosen date coincides with the signing of the Paris peace treaties in 1947, which transferred Istria, the Quarnero, Zara with its province, and much of Venezia Giulia to Yugoslavia.
Councilor Rossi reflected, “The tragedy of the Istrian exodus touched nearly the entire population, about 360 thousand individuals who left behind their homes and loved ones. Though few witnesses remain today, the memory of this tragedy is carried forward by subsequent generations and numerous institutions. It’s a shared tragedy not just for us but for neighboring Slovenes and Croats as well.”
He continued, “Today, we present the Day of Remembrance with 21 days of commemorations, 24 events, and 6 guided tours in Porto Vecchio, among other initiatives. There’s a significant reconciliation process underway, thanks in large part to the efforts of Mayor Roberto Dipiazza, highlighted by recent events such as the concert of the three Presidents and the meeting between the Presidents of Italy and Slovenia at the foiba of Basovizza.”
Paolo Sardos Albertini emphasized the long-standing awareness of the foibe in Trieste compared to other parts of Italy. “This was a tragedy not just for Italians, but for all who were forced into perpetual exile, resulting in the loss of national territory,” he remarked.
The Foiba di Basovizza – National Monument of Trieste, serves as a poignant site for this occasion and will host a ceremony on Saturday, February 10th, as it does annually.
To facilitate attendance, a free transport service will be provided by the National League in collaboration with Trieste Trasporti.
For more information and reservations, contact: 040 365343 – 348 5166126 – info@leganazionale.it.
Additionally, a schedule of cultural activities, running through February and until March 23rd, has been organized by various associations. All events are free admission until seats are filled. Further details are available at www.triestecultura.it and from the respective event organizers.
