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Atreju is not a political festival. There are already plenty of those in the national landscape. All parties organize them—often with limited success in terms of attendance, as seen with the Democratic Party’s Feste dell’Unità—but they organize them nonetheless. Atreju, however, stands apart because it represents the home of the Italian right. It is that place where people come together to exchange ideas, sometimes argue, sometimes shake hands, sometimes hug and joke. But in every case, it always remains a home. Whether it’s held in summer on Tiber Island or in winter at the Circus Maximus or Castel Sant’Angelo makes no difference. When a united people march forward, strengthening their roots and renewing their highest branches, the location doesn’t matter. What matters is that Atreju has returned.
Atreju: The Italian Path. Concrete Answers for a Changing World
From December 8 to 15, the Circus Maximus in Rome will host a new edition of Atreju, the traditional gathering of the Italian right. With the title “Atreju: The Italian Path. Concrete Answers for a Changing World,” this event will be an important opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved during the past two years of governance and to outline future priorities. But Atreju is not merely a moment of political reflection; it is a symbol representing over twenty years of the Italian right’s history—a bridge between generations, a space for dialogue and friendship that transcends partisan divisions.
The History of Atreju
Founded over two decades ago, Atreju takes its name from the young hero of Michael Ende’s novel The NeverEnding Story. This choice of symbol is no coincidence: it represents courage, determination, and the will to face challenges with the spirit of those who believe in values, tradition, and the necessity of building a better future. It was 1998 when the first edition of this long—perhaps infinite—journey was celebrated at Rome’s Parco del Colle Oppio, thanks to the vision of Fabio Rampelli. Over the years, what began as a Roman festival grew into the national celebration of the youth movement of the Italian right.
Atreju was initially conceived as a gathering for young right-wing activists, but over the years, it has evolved into a national event that attracts political leaders, intellectuals, journalists, and representatives of civil society. Despite the shifts in the Italian political landscape—from the era of Alleanza Nazionale to today’s Fratelli d’Italia—Atreju has remained a constant, a place where cultural roots, political vision, and aspirations for the future intertwine.
Throughout its history, all major figures of Italian politics—and beyond—have taken part. Memorable debates, such as those between Gianfranco Fini and Fausto Bertinotti, moderated by a young but already formidable Giorgia Meloni, have left their mark. It is important—if not essential—to emphasize that Atreju has always provided a platform for genuine debate, welcoming voices from across the political spectrum, whether right or left. The same cannot be said of festivals organized by the left. Here, discussions on the anni di piombo (the Years of Lead) have brought together figures like Marcello De Angelis and Mario Capanna. Moreover, prominent leftist figures like Luciano Violante, Massimo D’Alema, Walter Veltroni, and many others have engaged in dialogue with the right at Atreju. This has always been the key difference between “us” and “them.” We have never been afraid of debate.
Atreju has also been a time for levity and not just politics—a way to avoid taking oneself too seriously and to remember that the infinite nature of our story stems from pairing activism with humor. Today, the passage of time, the rise of Fratelli d’Italia as Italy’s leading party, and the fact that the prank-playing generation now governs the nation make it harder to engage in playful gestures, such as asking a foreign minister, as was done with Fini, to concretely commit to nonexistent Christian minorities. It’s an evolution, but the commitment to the nation remains the same. If there’s less joking now, it’s only because the mission is clearer than ever. The title of this edition says it all: delivering concrete answers.
The 2023 Edition and the Success of a Proven Format
The 2023 edition of Atreju, held last December, once again demonstrated its capacity to be a cornerstone of the international political and cultural scene. Among the prominent guests were figures such as Elon Musk, a visionary entrepreneur and key player in many technological and cultural revolutions; Edi Rama, Albania’s prime minister known for his innovative approach to politics; Rishi Sunak, the British leader pivotal in shaping dialogue between Europe and the UK; and Santiago Abascal, president of VOX and a significant voice for the conservative right in Spain.
The event offered a space for dialogue on crucial topics, from digital transformation to geopolitical evolution, while addressing deeply rooted issues like the role of traditions and cultural identities in a globalized world. This diversity of voices enriched the debates, reaffirming Atreju as a crossroads of diverse ideas and perspectives, with Italy always at the heart of the discussion.
Atreju 2024: A Chance to Reflect on Two Years of Governance
This year, under the theme “The Italian Path,” Atreju aims to focus on the concrete solutions the Italian right is providing to the challenges of a rapidly changing world. It will offer representatives of Fratelli d’Italia, the leading party in the governing coalition, a platform to showcase their achievements over the past two years.
From managing the energy crisis to strengthening family policies, from economic recovery to addressing security and immigration, the Italian right will present its policy decisions and discuss future strategies. The event will also feature in-depth discussions on international issues, such as Italy’s relationship with Europe and the country’s role in the global geopolitical landscape.
More than Politics: The Christmas Village and the Atmosphere of the Circus Maximus
The choice of the Circus Maximus as the location for Atreju 2024 adds further prestige to the event. This historic Roman site will be transformed into a unique gathering place where politics, culture, and tradition intersect with entertainment and conviviality.
Beyond debates and political meetings, Atreju will host a Christmas Village with markets, an ice-skating rink, and activities for families. It will be an opportunity to embrace the festive spirit, stroll among the stalls, enjoy culinary delights, and spend quality time with loved ones.
This blend of political reflection and moments of joy is one of Atreju’s defining characteristics. It is not just an event for insiders but an inclusive experience that welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds in a spirit of friendship and dialogue.
A Bridge Between Past and Future
In a political landscape often marked by rapid changes and uncertainties, Atreju stands as a stable reference point. It demonstrates that beyond the transformations of parties and electoral dynamics, there exists a community bound by shared values and a desire to contribute to the common good.
This edition will be another milestone in a history spanning more than twenty years—a history that continues to renew itself and look forward. Atreju is not just an event; it is a testament to how the Italian right has managed to preserve its identity while adapting to the changes of the modern world.
Atreju: The Italian Path. Concrete Answers for a Changing World promises to be an unmissable event, not only for those interested in politics but for anyone who wants to experience a sense of community, tradition, and the future. Between debates, entertainment, and the magical atmosphere of Christmas, the Circus Maximus will be the vibrant heart of an event that bridges reflection and lightheartedness, past and future, politics and everyday life. It will be an opportunity to come together, exchange ideas, and celebrate the values that make the Italian right unique.