164th Anniversary of the Italian Army in Bari: Timetable and Map
L' Italian Army is preparing to celebrate a historic milestone: the 164th anniversary of its constitution. An occasion to reflect on the decades of commitment and sacrifice that this Armed Force has dedicated to the defence of the Nation and to the support of Italian communities. The celebrations will take place from 1 to 4 May 2025 in Bari, in Piazza Libertà, where an 'Army Village' will be set up, offering everyone the opportunity to get up close and personal with the work of the soldiers, their daily commitment and the cutting-edge technologies with which they operate.
The 'Army Village' will be an area dedicated to interactive activities and a static exhibition of military vehicles and equipment, all accessible to the public. Amongst the main attractions, visitors will be able to admire the artificial climbing wall, drones, the Centaur 2 armoured vehicle, the VTMM Bear, the AH129 Mangusta helicopter, a flight simulator and numerous EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) assets. All this, to the rhythm of the music of Radio Esercito, which will accompany the event.
For the occasion, the city of Bari becomes the beating heart of a collective reflection on the importance of the Armed Forces in the daily lives of Italians, and the 'Army Village' is proposed as a meeting point between the public and the military. This event is a unique opportunity to get closer to the world of the Army, discovering not only the latest technologies, but also the value of the traditions and sacrifice that soldiers put into the service of their country every day.
The programme of celebrations
The activities of the 'Army Village' will begin on 1 May with the official inauguration. At 10 a.m., in fact, the ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held to kick off the event, followed by the flag-hoisting with the participation of the Fanfare of the 7th Bersaglieri Regiment. The day will continue with the concert of the fanfare, which will be a moment of music and esprit de corps for all those present.
On 2 May, a series of military events and official ceremonies will kick off with the laying of a laurel wreath at the War Memorial. The day will continue with a Brigade formation parade, followed by a military ceremony that will include the moment of highest honour with the salute to the Army's War Flag and the cities' Banners. There will also be spectacular moments such as the airdrop of the paratroopers of the Special Training Unit (RAS) and the parade of military vehicles, including armoured vehicles and other advanced equipment. The day will end with another concert by the Fanfare of the 7th Regiment Bersaglieri, which will be held at Largo Luigi Giannella.
Finally, on 4 May, after three days of celebrations and commemorations, the 'Army Village' will close its doors with the flag lowering ceremony, symbolising farewell and the end of the event. The ceremony will mark the conclusion of an important reflection on the value and role of the Army in the daily lives of every Italian citizen.
The 'Army Village' in Bari: a bridge between the Army and the population
The event is not only a formal celebration, but also an opportunity to bring the Armed Forces and the local community closer together. The 'Army Village' is designed to engage the public, offering a unique and interactive experience. Planned activities will give visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with the equipment and vehicles used by soldiers, to enjoy hands-on experiences such as climbing the artificial wall, and to witness flight simulations and real-time military operations.
Every day, the citizens of Bari and tourists visiting the city will be able to come into contact with the soldiers, discover the preparation and training that makes them ready to intervene in emergency situations, both nationally and internationally. The initiative will help strengthen the bond of trust and mutual esteem between the Italian Army and the civilian population, highlighting the soldiers' closeness to society and their commitment to protecting the country.
Opening hours of the 'Army Village
The 'Army Village' will be open to the public from 1 to 4 May 2025 with the following opening times:
- Morning: 10 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.
- Evenings: from 17:00 to 21:30 (except 4 May, early closing day)
The citizenship is invited to participate in large numbers, to experience together a great community celebration and to pay homage to the long history of the Italian Army, which for 164 years has been a pillar of our country's security and defence.
Born Alessandro Generotti, C.le Maj. Parachutist on leave. Military Parachutist Patent no. 192806. 186th RGT Par. Folgore/5th BTG. Par. El Alamein/XIII Cp. Par. Condor.
Founder and administrator of the website BRIGATAFOLGORE.NET. Blogger and computer scientist by profession.
