On June 2 every year Italy celebrates The Republic Day or “Festa della Repubblica”. This is one of the most important Italian holidays which celebrate the birth of the nation. Until 1946, Italy was officially a monarchy ruled by the House of Savoy. After the Second World War was over Italy held a referendum. With 12,717,923 votes for and 10,719,284 votes against, Italy became a Republic, after 85 years of monarchy.

 A grand parade is held in central Rome. The ceremony goes with the opening to the public of the official residence of the President. The celebration consists of an army parade and the bringing of the laurel wreath to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – the monumental grave representing all the unknown men and heroes dead for the Nation. All Armed Forces, Police Forces, the Fire Brigade and the Italian Red Cross, along with some military delegations of the NATO and of the European Union, take part in the parade.