Until September 8, the Louis Nucéra Library in Nice is opening its doors to lovers of Italy. 150 years ago, the country across the Alps unified after several wars of independence. The name of the exhibition is telling: Viva Italia.
One year after the anniversary of Nice’s unification with France, the Louis Nucéra Library is celebrating 150 years of Italian unity through the Viva Italia exhibition.
Achieved in 1861, the unification rewards the struggle of many committed writers and artists. Among them are the philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, theorist Giuseppe Mazzini, and writer Silvio Pellico. The strong stances of the latter would even lead him to prison.
Original documents are offered to the public
The writings of these historical figures are integral to the Viva Italia exhibition. Even better, visitors can view the original documents owned by the City of Nice. These notably include the writings of writers openly supportive of the unification of Italy’s internal provinces.
However, the transalpine awakening began to captivate minds long before 1861. As early as the 13th century, Dante was already envisioning it. This is evident in his texts, which are odes to Italy.
And today, even though this country—located just a few kilometers from the French Riviera—is going through tough times, it continues to be a land of dreams.
