Italy has discreetly changed one word in its National anthem For the first time in decades, the change eliminates the final "Sì!" from the song in official military and institutional ceremonies.
The decision is contained in a decree signed by the president. Sergio Mattarella The text was written on March 14 and published in the official gazette on May 7. It went almost unnoticed until it was reported this week by the Italian press.
The national anthem, known as “Il Canto degli Italiani” or “Fratelli d'Italia”, will no longer end with the exclamation “Sì!” in official performances. The new version concludes the final verse with just that. “Italy called”, followed only by the music.
Order to the Armed Forces
On December 2nd, the Chief of the Defence Staff issued an order stating that the “Sì!” chant should no longer be sung at official events. The directive was sent to all military commands, with a requirement for strict compliance.
The official text available on the Presidency of the Republic's website no longer includes the word "withdrawn."
Origin of the change
The word “Sì!” does not appear in the original 1847 manuscript written by the poet. Goffredo MameliThe word appears only in the musical score from the same year, attributed to the composer. Michele novaro.
According to historical records, Novaro added the expression to create what he described as "a supreme cry, a commitment, and a battle cry."
Political repercussions
A source at the Quirinal Palace informed the agency. Handle that the change was made "for reasons of purity" and not for political motives.
The Prime Minister's government Giorgia Meloni She would have proposed the change. The anthem has strong symbolic value for the head of government, whose party is called Brothers of Italy.
Despite this, Meloni was filmed this week singing the anthem with the traditional “Sì!” during a Christmas event at the Chigi Palace, in a performance by the Alpini choir.
Where the rule applies
The removal of the word applies only to military ceremonies and official institutional events. There is no indication that the change will be required at sporting events or informal occasions.
Italians have been singing this anthem for almost 75 years, ever since it was chosen in October 1946 by the post-war government. Its official legal recognition only came in 2017, decades after its practical adoption.
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