“First Italian, then father, then man.” Does that phrase resonate with you standing before the Nazario Sauro Statue? This imposing bronze statue commemorates Nazario Sauro, an Istrian patriot. He stands here on Trieste’s lungomare. The statue faces the Stazione Marittima. It was erected in 1966. This marked the 50th anniversary of his death.
Nazario Sauro was born in Koper when it was part of Austria-Hungary. He yearned for Istria’s union with Italy. When World War I erupted, he joined the Italian Navy. He fought for his ideals.
In 1916, during a daring sabotage mission, Sauro’s boat hit a rock. Austrian forces captured him. They identified him as a traitor. He was sentenced to death in Pula.
The Nazario Sauro Statue embodies his spirit. The artist Tristano Alberti created this bronze work. Sauro’s sacrifice is also remembered in the patriotic song “La Leggenda del Piave.” He is mentioned alongside Guglielmo Oberdan and Cesare Battisti. Italy posthumously awarded Sauro the Gold Military Merit Medal.
Every year on August 10th, Trieste remembers Sauro’s death. A flag-raising ceremony occurs at this monument. It is followed by tributes and a mass. These events honor his courage.
Imagine the scene in 1916. Sauro, captured and facing death, never wavered. His last thoughts were for his family and Italy. His words echo: “First Italian, then father, then man.”
The Nazario Sauro Statue serves as a reminder. It reminds us of the sacrifices made for Italian unity. It reminds us of the yearning for freedom. It embodies the spirit of irredentism. It also connects Trieste to its historical ties with Istria. The statue stands as a symbol. It symbolizes patriotism and remembrance.