Rome, May 28 – The exhibition “Women of the Republic. Eighty years of achievements in ANSA chronicles. 1946 – 2026” will be inaugurated today, May 28, and will open its doors to the public tomorrow, May 29. Hosted at the Complesso di Vicolo Valdina, in Piazza Campo Marzio 42 in Rome, the exhibition offers free admission until June 30. This photographic journey, comprising 122 images, chronicles the arduous path to women’s rights in Italy, from the first female mayors elected in 1946 to the recent approval of the law introducing the autonomous crime of femicide.
A Journey of Battles and Social Transformations
The exhibition highlights eight decades of struggles, social transformations, and legislative victories that have reshaped Italy, thanks to the commitment of 135 women. Through their photographs, ANSA aims to commemorate the dedication of all those who, away from the spotlight, contributed to the march towards equality.
The exhibition is organized with the patronage of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Farnesina), the National Association of Italian Municipalities (Anci), and the Municipality of Rome. Collaborating partners include Cinecittà/Istituto Luce and Fondazione Musica per Roma, with participation from Fastweb + Vodafone, Q8 Italia, and Conou.
Inauguration and Special Guests
The press inauguration will take place at 11:00 AM, featuring greetings from the President of the Chamber of Deputies, Lorenzo Fontana, the President of ANSA, Giulio Anselmi, and the CEO, Stefano De Alessandri. Accreditation for the event is available through the Chamber’s portal or via email to [email protected]. Astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti from the European Space Agency (ESA) will also participate, interviewed by ANSA Director Luigi Contu.
Public Access and Future Venues
Following the inauguration, the exhibition will be open to the public free of charge from Monday to Friday, from 11:00 AM to 7:30 PM, with the last entry at 7:00 PM. Please note that the exhibition will not be accessible on the afternoon of June 10, June 11, the afternoon of June 16, June 17, June 18, June 19, the afternoon of June 21, and June 22.
A special opening is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with online booking available at eventi.camera.it/eventionline. Subsequently, the exhibition will be relocated to AuditoriumArte, Auditorium Parco della Musica Ennio Morricone, located at Via Pietro de Coubertin 30 in Rome, where it will be on display from July 3 to August 1.
Key Milestones in Women’s Rights
The exhibition underscores pivotal moments in the advancement of women’s rights in Italy, including:
- June 2, 1946: Women vote for the first time.
- 1970: Divorce is introduced, later confirmed by referendum.
- 1977: Equal treatment for men and women in the workplace is established.
- 1981: The ‘reparatory marriage’ and ‘honor killing’ are abolished.
These milestones, among others, demonstrate the profound impact of women’s activism and legislative reforms on Italian society.
The Significance of the Exhibition
This exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and the importance of recognizing the contributions of women throughout history. By showcasing these achievements, ANSA aims to inspire future generations and foster continued progress towards a more equitable society.
The initiative also highlights ANSA’s role in documenting and reporting on these crucial societal changes over the past eight decades, providing a comprehensive historical perspective through its extensive photographic archives.
For more information on the exhibition and related events, visitors are encouraged to consult the official websites of the organizing and sponsoring institutions.
