Italy observed its 80th Republic Day on Tuesday with the annual military parade through the streets of Rome.

The celebrations commemorated the June 2, 1946, referendum in which Italians voted to abolish the monarchy and establish a democratic republic after World War II and the fall of fascism. President Sergio Mattarella placed a laurel wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Altare della Patria to open the ceremonies.

The parade proceeded along Via dei Fori Imperiali, passing between the Colosseum and the Altare della Patria. Units from the armed forces, police, civil protection services, and the Italian Red Cross participated, along with historic vehicles and marching bands. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni attended the event.

The Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team conducted a flyover, trailing green, white, and red smoke across the sky. Firefighters unfurled a large Italian flag over the Colosseum as part of the festivities.

Republic Day is a national holiday in Italy, with similar events held in other cities. The 2026 edition highlighted the milestone anniversary of the republic's founding.