Centenario dei bersaglieri

Why do the Bersaglieri always run? Here at the Centenario dei bersaglieri monument in Torino, that question hangs in the air, almost as palpable as the bronze figures themselves. The Centenario dei bersaglieri, a striking monument tucked away in the Giardino Lamarmora, commemorates the centennial of this unique Italian military corps. The monument itself has a dramatic history, mirroring the intensity of the Bersaglieri themselves. The bronze high relief depicts a group of Bersaglieri charging into battle, led by a winged allegory of the victorious Nation. They clamber over the body of a fallen comrade, their faces etched with grim determination. This powerful scene was originally created in 1923 by sculptor Giorgio Ceragioli to honor the fallen soldiers of World War I. It was placed in the Monte Grappa barracks. Then, in 1936, to mark the centennial of the Bersaglieri, the bronze relief was moved to its present location. A new stone base was constructed, giving the sculpture an even greater sense of permanence and power. But the story doesn’t end there. On the night of July 13, 1943, an air raid during World War II damaged the monument. It stood as a silent testament to the destruction of war until 1950. Then, it was carefully restored by the military and the city of Torino. Look closely at the base. You can see the inscriptions detailing its creation, relocation, destruction, and resurrection. They add another layer to this already poignant monument. The Centenario dei bersaglieri isn’t just about the past. It reflects the enduring spirit of the Bersaglieri, their speed, their courage, and their unwavering dedication to Italy. So, the next time you see the Bersaglieri running, remember this monument and the stories it whispers. Their distinctive wide-brimmed hats decorated with black capercaillie feathers aren’t just for show. They represent a rich history of service, sacrifice, and a dash of Italian flair.