Italy celebrates Women’s Day
Being a woman in the modern age is no easy task. The lives led by 50% of the world’s population today are largely a result of the activism and achievements of those who came before them. On March 8th, the world will come together to celebrate the accomplishments of women in social, economic, and political spheres on what is known as International Women’s Day or Festa della Donna in Italian.
The origin of the day dates back to a strike that took place on the same day in 1908 when 15,000 female garment workers in New York protested against poor working conditions. Over time, the day became synonymous with protests and demonstrations by women, including a Russian women’s strike in 1917 demanding “bread and peace”. It was only after WWII in 1946 that Teresa Mattei, director of the Italian Women’s Union, officially designated March 8th as International Women’s Day, choosing the yellow mimosa flower as its symbol in Italy.
The mimosa flower, originally of the acacia species, was introduced to Europe in 1820. Mattei found it to be an affordable and widespread option as opposed to the French symbol of violets. Nowadays, men gift the mimosa flower to the women in their lives as a gesture of appreciation, while women exchange the flower as a symbol of solidarity.
Another unique tradition of Festa della Donna is the torta mimosa, a yellow sponge cake resembling the mimosa flower with a custard center and a hint of orange. While the celebration may have evolved from Valentine’s Day, it remains a day to honor female resilience.
Rome is gearing up to celebrate Women’s Day with free admission for women in Italian state museums and archaeological sites, in addition to exhibitions, performances, and food festivals. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, join in the festivities to acknowledge women’s invaluable contributions to society.
Here are some ideas for how to celebrate the day in Rome:
Free Admission for women in Italian state museums and archaeological sites
Museums and cultural heritage sites, including the Colosseum, will offer free entry to women in honor of IWD and will also highlight works of art featuring women on the day.
Info: turismoroma.it
Exhibitions in major museums and city walks
Rome is hosting a series of events from Thursday 7 to Saturday 9 March to celebrate women’s roles in art and culture and honor influential female figures in the city’s social and cultural life. The city has prepared women-centered itineraries, such as a walk through the Colonna and Campo Marzio neighborhood, and a visit to the Street Art in San Lorenzo.
