‘Remembering the massacres of the foibe and the tragedy of the Istrian, Fiuman, and Dalmatian exodus encourages critical reflection on nationalism and exclusionary, violent ideologies that tore Europe apart in the last century,’ says Patrick Karlsen, Associate Professor of Contemporary History at the University of Trieste, on the occasion of the National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe. ‘The history of the Adriatic border is inherently transnational and serves as a kind of laboratory of modernity. Understanding it helps to reinforce democratic citizenship and a sense of belonging to our common European home—ties that are essential to keeping our societies cohesive and united in solidarity.’

On the evening of 10th February, the façade of the University main building will be illuminated in the colours of the Italian flag to raise awareness in the city about these events, which so profoundly marked this territory.

The National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe was established by Law No. 92 of 30th March 2004 with the following statement:

‘The Republic recognises 10th February as the National Memorial Day of the Exiles and Foibe in order to preserve and renew the memory of the tragedy of Italians and all victims of the Foibe massacres, the exodus of Istrians, Fiumans, and Dalmatians from their homeland in the aftermath of World War II, and the broader, complex history of the Italian eastern border.’

The same law also established the Museum of Istrian, Fiuman, and Dalmatian Civilisation in Trieste and the Historical Museum-Archive of Fiume in Rome.

Each year, during the official commemorations, descendants of the victims who apply receive a metal insignia bearing the inscription ‘The Italian Republic Remembers’ along with a diploma signed by the President of the Republic.