Launched in 1946, during the reconstruction of Italy after World War II, the Vespa turned 80 years old. Established as much more than a scooter. A symbol of Italian design, freedom and a lifestyle that spans generations, the brand brought together thousands of enthusiasts in Rome this Saturday (27) for a historic celebration.
The event highlighted Vespa's role as one of the greatest ambassadors of Made in Italy around the world. The highlight of the program was the grand parade through the streets of the Italian capital.
More than 10 Vespas took over the historic center of Rome, bringing together around 25.000 participants from 67 countries. The route passed through some of the city's most emblematic landmarks, such as... ColiseumThe Roman Forum and Piazza Venezia, transforming the Eternal City into a showcase of Italian culture, design and creativity.
National symbol
Beyond being a celebration among collectors and admirers, the Vespa's anniversary took on an institutional dimension. On the eve of the parade, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni received, at Palazzo Chigi, the executive president and CEO of the Piaggio Group, Matteo and Michele Colaninno.
In a social media post, Meloni defined the Vespa as "una eccellenza industriale" (an industrial excellence) and one of the most beloved Italian icons in the world. According to the Prime Minister, celebrating the scooter's 80th anniversary is to honor one of the greatest success stories of... Made in Italy, which continues to strengthen Italian soft power.
From the reconstruction of Italy to the world.
The Vespa story began when Piaggio, a traditional aircraft manufacturer, needed to reinvent its production after its factories were devastated during the war. Businessman Enrico Piaggio commissioned aeronautical engineer Corradino d'Ascanio to develop a lightweight, economical, and easy-to-drive vehicle.
The result was a scooter with innovative lines that quickly democratized mobility in the country. Its design brought unprecedented solutions, allowing women to ride it while wearing skirts, without the need to stand on the seat as in traditional motorcycles.
Cultural landmark
Worldwide recognition came with cinema, especially after Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck rode through the streets of Rome in Roman Holiday (1953). After that, the scooter made appearances in productions such as La Dolce Vita, The Talented Mr. Ripley and, more recently, in the animated film Luca.
In eight decades, the Piaggio It produced approximately 20 million units, now sold in over 110 countries. The brand also engaged with fashion and pop culture through collaborations with names like Christian Dior, Giorgio Armani, and Justin Bieber.
Eight decades of an icon.
The celebrations in Rome continue until this Sunday (28), including historical exhibitions, musical performances, rare models from the Piaggio Museum and a special edition inspired by the traditional pastel green of the first post-war models.
What began as a practical solution for mobility in post-war Italy has become one of the greatest symbols of Italian design, preserving its appeal across different generations.
(With information from ANSA and the Piaggio Group)
