Florence has not been conquered by an army with large feathers in their hats, it’s just the national convention of the Italian Military’s Rifle Squads, or, Bersaglieri.
Florence was chosen as host for the 53rd national meeting and rally. The occasion signifies a series of happenings, including marching parades, concerts, and sports events, to take place throughout the week.
One of the most interesting of these may be the football match between the Bersaglieri and Parliamentary Representatives at the Franchi Stadium on Saturday May 21, at 15:00. Proceeds from the game will be donated to the Meyer Foundation, which is the children’s hospital of Florence.
And for the grand finale, a record number of 400 units will also arrive on the last day of the convention, May 22nd, for a marching display and parade in Piazza Santa Croce, beginning at 23:00.
The Bersaglieri are a historical sector of the Italian Army, dating back to 1836, and are best recognised by the large feathers adorning the hats of their uniforms. Florence was chosen as host of the event this year because it is the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Florentine Division of the Bersaglieri.
