In Rome: the story of Italy’s emblem — an exhibition on Paolo Paschetto

In Rome: the story of Italy’s emblem

Until 27 September 2026 the Casina delle Civette, part of the Musei di Villa Torlonia in Rome, hosts an exhibition dedicated to the creation of the emblem of the Italian Republic and to Paolo Paschetto (Torre Pellice, 1885–1963). The display retraces the public contest that led to the choice of the national symbol, presenting preparatory sketches, archival papers and the artist’s working materials.

What you will see

The exhibition is organised into thematic sections that guide visitors through the design and historical stages of the emblem’s selection. Key highlights include:

• Sketches and drawings by Paschetto and other finalists;
• Archival documents and facsimiles that document the competition;
• The artist’s tools (paints, compass, set squares, engraving materials);
• Philatelic designs and materials related to the emblem’s circulation;
• Multimedia content and a video interview with a historian, also available online.

The competition and historical context

In 1946 a public contest invited designs for a distinct emblem of the Republic, asking for clarity and simplicity and explicitly including the star of Italy. Hundreds of proposals were submitted; Paschetto’s project was ultimately selected after revisions. The emblem was officially adopted in 1948 and has since represented the Italian Republic.

Symbolic elements

The emblem combines three principal elements, each with a clear meaning:

• The star, an ancient iconographic sign long associated with the personification of Italy;
• The cogwheel, symbolising labour and echoing the Constitution’s opening article about Italy’s foundation on work;
• The olive and oak branches, representing the nation’s desire for peace and the people’s strength and dignity.

Practical information

Location: Casina delle Civette, Musei di Villa Torlonia, Rome.
Dates: exhibition open until 27 September 2026.
Content: original documents and facsimiles, preparatory sketches, the artist’s tools and multimedia insights.

Why attend

The exhibition is an opportunity to see how a national symbol is shaped through artistic proposals, selections and archival preservation. It is recommended for those interested in art history, symbolic design and heritage conservation.