Milan – Milan has dedicated the garden overlooking via Ciaia, in the historic Dergano district, to the anti-fascist partisans Sergio Bassi and Elio Sammarchi. Formerly known as the Garden of Resistance for the presence of a mural depicting the faces of the two young men killed in 1944, it will now bear their names.
At this afternoon's ceremony, which preceded tonight's neighborhood celebration, representatives of the Municipality, the president of ANPI Milan, Primo Minelli, and Primo Sammarchi, 91 years old and also a partisan courier, brother of Elio, were present. Many residents of the neighborhood, which boasts numerous Medals of Military Valor from the Resistance, were also in attendance.
Originally from Emilia, both Elio Sammarchi from Sasso Marconi, in the province of Bologna, and Sergio Bassi from Parma, moved to Milan at a young age. They settled in the northern area of the city, in a building at Via Imbonati 9, where they met and became friends. Elio was a firefighter, while Sergio, still a student, worked as a clerk at a shipping company.
After September 8, 1943, they joined the partisan Resistance by joining the Gruppi di Azione Patriottici (Patriotic Action Groups) in the city. Sergio became the squad leader of the group operating in Via Farini, to which his friend Elio also joined. With courage and valor, they participated in numerous armed actions and sabotage operations until the end. Elio was executed in Chesio Valstorna in the province of Novara on May 9, 1944, while Sergio was killed three months later at the Campo Forlanini in Milan on July 31, along with five other Gappisti.
The dedication of the garden to Sergio Bassi and Elio Sammarchi underscores Milan's commitment to preserving the memory of those who fought against fascism during World War II. This gesture not only honors the sacrifice of the two partisans but also serves as a reminder of the city's resilient spirit during one of its darkest periods.
The presence of numerous residents and representatives at the ceremony highlights the continued importance of commemorating the Resistance in contemporary society. It symbolizes the collective effort to remember and honor the sacrifices made by individuals like Sergio and Elio in the struggle for freedom and democracy.
Context
The dedication of the garden in Dergano to Sergio Bassi and Elio Sammarchi is a poignant tribute to their courage and sacrifice in the fight against fascism. It serves as a reminder of the values of freedom, democracy, and solidarity that they upheld, and it reinforces the importance of preserving the memory of the Resistance for future generations.
As Milan continues to evolve, it is essential to remember and honor the individuals who played a vital role in shaping its history. By dedicating public spaces like the garden in Dergano to these heroes, the city reaffirms its commitment to justice, equality, and remembrance.
Glossary:
- ANPI: Associazione Nazionale Partigiani d'Italia (National Association of Italian Partisans)
- Gappisti: Members of the Gruppi di Azione Patriottici (Patriotic Action Groups), active in the Italian Resistance during World War II.
