“We are here to remember, because memory brings responsibility. During World War II, we reached the depths of the abyss—barbarism, the eradication of all human dignity. Italy, Germany, and Europe were able to rise from that hell, building freedom, peace, democracy, rights, community, and a new sense of security.” These were the words of Italian President Sergio Mattarella during his speech for the 80th anniversary of the Marzabotto massacre. “President Steinmeier, I want to thank you. The Italian Republic thanks you for being here with our fellow citizens, the families of the victims, to share an anniversary so rich in historical and civic significance,” he added.
“Today, your presence, dear President Steinmeier, is further encouragement for us to continue building the future together. On this day, with President Steinmeier present, we can affirm, as President Rau said in 2002, that Marzabotto is no longer a place that separates Germans and Italians but one that unites them,” emphasized the head of state.
“Marzabotto and Monte Sole are cornerstones of the Italian Republic. Eighty years after those tragic days, we now more clearly recognize that Marzabotto and Monte Sole are symbols and foundations of all of Europe, proof of our shared destiny. Together, as we reaffirmed recently in Berlin, Bonn, and Cologne, we choose this path. It is one of a Europe that refuses to abandon, and indeed seeks to develop, its values, its civilization, and its laws, founded on the primacy of the individual,” President Mattarella concluded.
