Five days of national mourning for the death of Pope Bergoglio: open schools, suspended events and celebrations of April 25 with sobriety
The Italian government has proclaimed five days of national mourning for the death of Pope Francis. The decision was made at the invitation of the Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, and has symbolic value: it serves to commemorate dramatic events or the disappearance of important figures for the country. There is no specific law that regulates national mourning, but some practices and a 2002 circular define how to behave in these situations.
Schools and offices remain open
The national mourning for Pope Francis falls in a period already marked for holidays. However, there is no closing of public schools or offices. It is customary that a minute of silence is observed in memory of the pontiff. All flags will be exhibited at half auction on public and institutional buildings.
Sporting events and concerts: what is planned
On the occasion of the day of the funeral, Saturday 26 April, Football matches will not be held. Concerts and cultural events not related to charity could also be deleted or postponed. The authorities invite to evaluate case by case, with attention and respect.
The events of April 25 will take place
Despite the national mourning, the celebrations for April 25 – which this year mark the 80th anniversary of the liberation – will be confirmed. This was specified by Minister in Musumeci at the end of the Council of Ministers, underlining the importance of respecting the solemnity of the moment.
Specifically:
- The ceremony at the altar of the homeland with the President of the Republic and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will be held, but with more sober tones.
- Processions, local initiatives and concerts could be canceled or adapted, always respecting the context.
- Cultural and sporting activities will also be able to undergo changes.
Mattarella: the agenda of 25 April confirmed
The President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella will keep all the commitments scheduled for the Liberation Festival. At 9:30 he will participate in the ceremony in the altar of the homeland, where he will hold a crown in homage to the fallen. In the afternoon he will be in Genoa, at the Ivo Chiesa theater, for a meeting dedicated to resistance.
