An icon of Italian life, the Vespa marked its 80th anniversary on Saturday as around 25,000 scooters took part in a parade through Rome. Riders from across the world filled the capital’s streets, some wearing biker jackets despite the heat, others in T-shirts, as the distinctive hum of engines echoed through the city.
Some participants rode solo, others in pairs, even passing through areas usually closed to private traffic. David Baamonde from Texas described a two-week journey from the United States to Rome via Germany and Austria. “For me, the Vespa is a way of life, a sense of carefree living,” he said.
Long associated with Italian cinema classics such as Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita, the Vespa is deeply tied to Rome’s global image. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri called it “an iconic symbol” of Italy’s post-war recovery and cultural identity, noting its role in shaping how the world sees the Eternal City.
The Vespa, meaning “wasp” in Italian due to the sound of its engine, was first patented on 23 April 1946 by Piaggio. It is still manufactured in Pontedera, Tuscany. Gualtieri described it as a symbol of an Italy “emerging from the war and getting back on its feet”.
The celebrations began earlier in the week with a “Vespa Village” at the Foro Italico sports complex, culminating in the large parade through Rome. Thousands of “Vespisti” from around the world attended, showcasing the scooter’s rounded design, colourful bodywork, and signature handlebar-mounted headlight.
American siblings Andrew Ward and Julie Stover also joined the event, renting a Vespa in Rome. Ward said he had always wanted one, while Stover called it “classy” and “special”, noting its quality compared to other scooters.
Originally designed as an affordable mode of transport, the Vespa has become a symbol of Italy’s post-war economic and social revival. Piaggio executive chairman Matteo Colaninno said it represents both mobility and social progress, with nearly 20 million vehicles produced since 1946.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also praised it as a symbol of “Italian creativity and style”. For many riders, however, its appeal lies in connection and community. Franco Gaudino called it “a legend”, while Illac Diaz said, “Vespa is like a family”.
Eighty years on, the Vespa remains a global symbol of freedom, design, and shared experience. — AFP
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