Itineraries of Resistance and Repression

In search of memories in the historic centre of Reggio Emilia

Starting from
Piazzetta Pigredoli
Tour length
3.4 km each
Duration
About 1 h 30
Suitable for
Hikers

Transport methods

Introduction

Two walking tours in the heart of Reggio Emilia take visitors on a journey of discovery through the landmarks associated with the German occupation, the partisan struggle and Nazi-Fascist repression during the Second World War.
A journey through history that winds its way through the squares, buildings and streets of the historic centre, offering an intimate insight into one of the most dramatic and decisive periods in the city’s history.

A period that marked the city

Between 8 September 1943 (the Armistice) and 25 April 1945 (Liberation), Reggio Emilia was occupied by the German army and incorporated into the territories of the Italian Social Republic. During these twenty months, partisan brigades were formed and operated, playing a leading role in a widespread and widely supported Resistance movement.
The suggested itineraries allow visitors to retrace places that are now quiet but were then the scene of power, fear, courage and sacrifice.

Itinerary 1

Reggio under occupation: Nazi-Fascist rule

A tour that explores the sites associated with surveillance, repression and the military apparatus during the occupation.

Stops along the route:

  • Caserma della Milizia fascista – Piazzetta Pignedoli
  • Villa Zironi – Via della Racchetta, 20
  • Villa Pellizzi – Via della Racchetta, 9
  • Villa Chiesi – Via San Zenone, 8
  • Prefettura – Corso Garibaldi, 59
  • Carcere dei Servi – Via Guasco / Via dei Servi
  • Sede del Partito Fascista Repubblicano – Corso Cairoli, 6
  • Villa Cucchi – Via Franchetti, 10
  • Caserma Zucchi – Viale A. Allegri, 8/A

As you walk past government buildings, requisitioned villas and barracks, you discover how Nazi-Fascist power was organised in the city and the repressive system that targeted political opponents and civilians.

Itinerary 2

A mass movement: the Resistance

A tour focusing on the sites associated with the partisan struggle, popular mobilisation and the Liberation.

Stops along the route:

  • Piazza della Vittoria – Liberation Parade
  • Chiesa di San Francesco – Piazza San Francesco, 1
  • Libreria Nironi e Prandi – Via F. Crispi, 6
  • Piazza Prampolini – Partisan massacre
  • Piazzale Fiume – The killing of the spy Aschenko
  • Via Porta Brennone / Corso Garibaldi – Partisan massacre
  • Caffè Perli – Via Emilia Santo Stefano, 23/A
  • Ex Caserma Zucchi – Execution of the partisan Angelo Zanti

This itinerary reveals the face of a city that knew how to resist: men and women, young people and workers, priests and students who chose to oppose the occupation and contributed to Liberation.

A memory tourism experience

The two tours can be taken separately or combined into a single visit. They are ideal for schools, organised groups, history enthusiasts and anyone wishing to discover Reggio Emilia through its most profound and significant events.
A journey that invites you to reflect, understand and remember.