Remembrance Day - Rome War Cemetery

Remembrance Day at the Rome War Cemetery

Every year on November 11th, the Rome War Cemetery in the capital's Testaccio district becomes the heart of one of the city's most poignant commemorative ceremonies. Remembrance Day is observed across Commonwealth countries since the end of the First World War to honor members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty. In Rome, the commemoration takes place among the graves of 426 Commonwealth soldiers who died during the Second World War, in a site steeped in history, nestled against the ancient Aurelian Walls.

A place of memory in the heart of Rome

The cemetery, designed by architect Louis de Soissons, lies along and within the Aurelian Walls, just a short walk from the Pyramid of Cestius and the famous Non-Catholic Cemetery where poets Keats and Shelley are buried. It was established shortly after the liberation of Rome on June 3, 1944, to receive the remains of Allied soldiers who fell during the Italian campaign and prisoners of war who died in the city. Today, it preserves the memory of 426 fallen soldiers, 422 of whom are identified, hailing from various Commonwealth nations.

The ceremony

The commemoration begins at 10:45 AM; those wishing to attend are invited to arrive by 10:30 AM to sign the visitor's book at the entrance. The service is attended by ambassadors, diplomats, and military personnel from numerous nations, including Commonwealth and African countries, alongside representatives of the Italian Armed Forces and the Carabinieri. The rite includes the laying of poppy wreaths, choral music, and the traditional silence in memory of the fallen.

The poppy and the Royal British Legion

A universal symbol of remembrance, the red poppy is the centerpiece of the day: poppies can be purchased on-site, with all proceeds donated to the Royal British Legion. Wearing a poppy on one's lapel is the gesture used throughout the Commonwealth to honor those who lost their lives in conflict.

An event open to all

The ceremony is free and open to the public. It represents a moment of reflection and a meeting point for international communities in the heart of Rome, as well as a precious opportunity to discover a lesser-known corner of the Eternal City, where the great history of the 20th century dialogues with the vestiges of ancient Rome. In the Lazio region, and specifically in the Municipality of Rome, this event serves as a bridge of memory and friendship between Italy and the Commonwealth nations.