Italian News Highlights

*The garrison public affairs office translates summaries of local news articles for the convenience of non-Italian speaking community members. The information contained in these summaries is originally written by Italian news sources and does not reflect the opinion of U.S. Army Garrison Italy or any of its tenant commands. Direct any questions about the Italian news to the garrison public affairs office.*

Italian News from Vicenza – September 30, 2025

• City challenges ANAS layout for Del Din link road, citing traffic, community impact
• Vicenza rolls out seasonal anti-smog rules: traffic bans, heating caps and barbecue limits\
• Longare, the truffle festival returns to Lumignano from Oct. 9–13
• Peace Park opens in Vicenza
• Peace Park faces first challenges: opening times, parking and trash
• Costozza hosts UNICO Handmade market this Sunday
• Sweater weather is upon us as October begins with below-average temperatures
• Mossano celebrates duck festival the next two weekends
• Gustus 2025: discover wines and flavors of Vicenza Oct. 4–5
• Dining with Alpine Troops at Maddalene’s Codfish Festival

City challenges ANAS layout for Del Din link road, citing traffic, community impact – Sept. 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The city of Vicenza is formally responding to the updated layout presented Aug. 28 by ANAS, Italy’s national road agency, regarding the final design of the “Del Din link road.” In a resolution approved on Sept. 26, the municipality raised concerns about environmental impact, land fragmentation, and the protection of the nearby UNESCO site. The 1.6-kilometer road, with an estimated cost of €37 million, is intended to connect the road SP46 to the northern entrance of the U.S. military base Del Din. Vicenza’s response also calls for clearer management responsibilities and greater public involvement, urging the Ministry of Environment to extend the comment period and present the project to citizens before the project moves on. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza rolls out seasonal anti-smog rules: traffic bans, heating caps, and barbecue limits– September 30, Il Giornale di Vicenza

From Oct. 1 to April 30, 2026, Vicenza enforces anti-pollution measures under the Po Valley Agreement and Veneto Region directives. Restrictions include traffic bans based on vehicle emissions, heating limits (19°C in homes, 17°C in factories), and a ban on solid-fuel barbecues at pollution alert levels. New rules extend bans to LPG and methane vehicles, Euro 5 diesels, and agricultural machinery. Idling is prohibited, even at traffic lights. Shops must keep doors closed when heated. Fines range from €168 to €678, with license suspension for repeat offenses. Burning branches is banned, except for two local bonfire events on Jan. 5 and March 19, 2026. Citizens are encouraged to drive gently, use public transport, and carpool to reduce pollution. Exceptions and alert-level details are outlined in the ordinance. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Longare, the truffle festival returns to Lumignano from Oct. 9–13 – September 29, VicenzaToday

The Truffle Festival returns to Lumignano from Oct. 9 to 13, celebrating its 10th edition with five days of food, music and fun. Held in a heated marquee with nearby parking, the event features truffle specialties and Vicenza dishes like gnocchi, risotto, roast pork and polenta. The food stand opens at 7 p.m., with two reservation slots and takeaway available from 7:45 p.m. Sunday includes lunch, a charity raffle and entertainment. Local band Trike performs each evening. Table reservations can be made at https://sagradilumignano.it. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Peace Park opens in Vicenza – September. 28, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Peace Park opened on the grounds of the former Dal Molin Airport, marking the end of a nearly 20-year journey rooted in civic activism and the “No Dal Molin” movement. The 650,000-square-meter park—five times the size of Querini Park— had a ribbon-cutting that drew 5,000 visitors Sept. 25. Funded with €12 million, Peace Park stands as a symbol of civic activism, peace and resistance to militarization. Local leaders highlighted its historic value and the importance of preserving its legacy. Vicenza Mayor Giacomo Possamai called it both a shared commitment and a future opportunity. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Peace Park faces first challenges: opening times, parking and trash – September 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Peace Park welcomed thousands on its first Sunday but now it shifts to regular operations with seasonal hours and regulations. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, hours range from 8 a.m.–4 p.m. in winter to 7 a.m.–8 p.m. in summer. Bicycles, e-bikes and scooters are allowed. Despite encouragement to use public transport, traffic congestion and illegal parking frustrated nearby residents. Limited bike racks, no trash bins, and minimal shade were among visitors’ concerns. The dog area also drew criticism for its low fencing, lack of water fountains and absence of seating. As festivities end, managing access, amenities and environmental balance will be key to keeping the park safe, welcoming and sustainable. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Costozza hosts UNICO Handmade market this Sunday – September 29, www.unicofattoamano.it

The UNICO Handmade Market returns to the charming village of Costozza on Sunday, Oct. 5. It will be a special day dedicated to craftsmanship, creativity and the beauties of the area, with more than 30 selected exhibitors displaying their handmade creations, art and design, along with street food and local flavors to be enjoyed outdoors. If you want to discover Costozza, sign up for the guided tours organized by the Pro Loco at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (meeting point in central square of Costozza) at info@prolocolongare.it. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Sweater weather is upon us as October begins with below-average temperatures – September 29, Il Giornale di Vicenza

A veritable cold wave will hit much of Europe, including Italy, starting Wednesday, Oct. 1, causing significantly lower temperatures (41 degrees F° less than now) both during the day and at night. The coldest period will be between Thursday morning and Friday morning, when temperatures could reach 40 degrees F° in rural lowland areas. The Asiago Plateau might even see some frost. Very low temperatures will also be recorded in the morning of Oct. 4. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Mossano celebrates duck festival the next two weekends – September 23, VicenzaToday

The Festa dell' Arna returns to Mossano for the next two weekends, Oct. 4-5 and 11-12, dedicated to the authentic flavors of Vicenza cuisine, with an indoor area on Via Capitello ready to welcome visitors. The menu includes bigoli and gnocchi with duck sauce, spit-roasted duck, duck stew, other main meat courses and, new this year, risotto Mossano-style, all paired with excellent local wine. The food stand will be open in the evenings from 7 p.m. and, also for lunch, on Sundays. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Gustus 2025: discover wines and flavors of Vicenza Oct. 4–5 – September 22, VicenzaToday

Gustus – Wines and Flavors of Vicenza, the event that celebrates the wines of the Doc Colli Berici, Vicenza and Gambellara will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4 and Sunday, Oct. 5 at the “Arrigo Pedrollo” Conservatory of Music (Contrà San Domenico 33, Vicenza). The event will be from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and from 5 to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Visitors will have the chance to taste wine from a selection of more than 100 labels from 25 different wineries. Accompanying the experience will be musical entertainment provided by the students of the Conservatory and a gastronomy inspired by local food specialties. For information and to pre-purchase tickets with a 20 per cent discount visit www.gustus-vicenza.it (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Dining with Alpine Troops at Maddalene’s Codfish Festival – August 4, VicenzaToday

From Oct. 3 to 6, the heart of Vicenza’s Maddalene district, in Strada Maddalene 49 Vicenza, will come alive with the rich flavors and warm spirit of tradition. Held in the covered festival area, this event is organized by Alpine Troops in Solidarity. Experience the true taste of “Bacalà alla Vicentina” (Vicenza Codfish), prepared with devotion to time-honored culinary traditions. Celebrate in a festive and welcoming atmosphere. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)

Recent Italian News highlights

• City takes action against GPS over neglected parking lots, broken pay booths
• Online shopping drives waste surge in greater Vicenza
• Vicenza celebrates Peace Park inauguration with four days of events
• Union blocks layoffs at U.S. base in Vicenza amid contract dispute
• Traffic restrictions return with new limits on LPG and methane vehicles
• Cortina Olympics 2026: Veneto seeks 800 workers for games
• Bottega Veneta, the discreet luxury of “intrecciato” made in Vicenza turns 50
• Former mayor Variati reflects on Peace Park: a legacy of vision and resilience
• University of Virginia opens first international campus in Vicenza
• University of Padua, one in four courses taught in English to expand global
• Vicenza: Rauti scores twice, lifts Lane to fourth straight win
• Arzignano’s leather museum to bridge past and future
• Bressanvido, Italy's longest transhumance a three-day journey with 600 cows
• Dueville’s Oktoberfest: Bavarian flavors and Munich brews await
• Gambellara celebrates 97th Grape Harvest Festival with wine, food, and music
• Torri di Quartesolo celebrates Rosary and Duck Festival next week

City takes action against GPS over neglected parking lots, broken pay booths - Sept. 26, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Bar that won't go up, pay stations that don't work, digital payments that fail, and parking lots that have become dumps, so much so that citizens take matters into their own hands and clean them. This is the situation regarding parking lots in the city managed by GPS. It seems that the company - after the dispute they lost in court - has forgotten its obligations while waiting for the administration to change operators. The city's first step is to try to recover the 1.9 million euros of bank guaranty (the total amount owed is over 7 million euros), but it is not going to be simple nor fast. Meanwhile, someone is not sitting around: yesterday morning, citizens and Alpini carried out a major cleanup of the Bassano parking lot on Via dello Stadio, one of the city's main interchanges. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Online shopping drives waste surge in greater Vicenza - Sept. 26, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Urban waste in Vicenza’s 89 municipalities rose by 3.2 percent from 2023 to 2024, reaching 2.33 million tons. The increase, not linked to population growth, is largely attributed to packaging from online purchases. Sorting challenges persist, especially with plastics—24% of light multi-material waste was unrecoverable in 2024. Residual waste rose to 113 kg per capita, exceeding the regional target of 101 kg. To improve waste management, the Basin Council launched a €250,000 grant program for municipalities to upgrade collection centers, including reuse areas. Applications are open until Oct. 31, with completion due by June 30, 2026. President Gonzo emphasized the need for proactive measures to reduce waste at the source. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Vicenza celebrates Peace Park inauguration with four days of events - Sept. 25, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Vicenza’s new Peace Park on Sant’Antonino Street will be inaugurated Saturday at noon, but festivities begin Sept. 25 with over 100 events spanning four days. The Hangar Palooza festival and peace-themed activities will animate the park, starting with interfaith reflections and a symbolic renewal of the Brotherhood Pact with Bethlehem. Highlights include concerts, food trucks, youth workshops, guided nature tours, and sports. Saturday’s ribbon cutting by Mayor Giacomo Possamai will be preceded by community walks and bike rides to the park. Sunday features kite festivals, climbing, music, and discussions on peace in Ukraine and Gaza. The event also hosts “Mayors for Peace,” drawing leaders from across Italy. With cultural, educational, and civic engagement, the celebration marks Vicenza’s commitment to peace, sustainability, and international dialogue. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Union blocks layoffs at U.S. base in Vicenza amid contract dispute – Sept. 24, Vicenzatoday

A labor dispute has erupted at the U.S. military base Del Din in Vicenza, where 32 employees of Sky Bridge Tactical Italy face layoffs following a contract change. The company lost its role supporting the 173rd Airborne Brigade after the U.S.-based Mantech International reassigned the contract to D.A.V. Force. FILT CGIL union challenged the layoffs, citing violations of the social clause that protects workers’ rights. Ten employees remain active without formal contracts or insurance, while 22 have lost base access. The union demands salary continuity and fair severance. Talks have escalated to the Veneto Region, with negotiations set to continue in October to resolve the dispute and prevent mass terminations. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Traffic restrictions return with new limits on LPG and methane vehicles – Sept. 24, Il Giornale di Vicenza.

As fall begins, seasonal pollution control measures will take effect. From Oct. 1 through April 30, traffic restrictions will apply in urban areas facing high vehicle congestion, heating-related emissions, and outdoor burning. These measures are grounded in the regional air quality plan and enforced locally through municipal ordinances with the goal of protecting public health and improving air quality during colder months. The anticipated 2025 ban on Euro 5 diesel vehicles has been postponed. Euro 0 and 1 vehicle will not be allowed to circulate in the restricted areas, even with a green level. In the event of an orange or red alert, this restriction will also apply to Euro 2 vehicles. All restrictions will be reorganized in the “anti-pollution” ordinances that municipalities are currently working on. (Summary by Silvia Trevisan)

Cortina Olympics 2026: Veneto seeks 800 workers for games – Sept. 26, Corriere Veneto

The Milan-Cortina Olympics organizing committee has launched a recruitment drive for 800 seasonal workers in Veneto—300 for direct roles with the Foundation and 500 in related industries. Randstad, the employment agency managing hiring, has posted listings with deadlines between late October and early November. Contracts range from two to four months, covering roles like transport coordinators, logistics operators, press officers, and venue supervisors. Healthcare professionals, technicians, and hospitality staff are also needed. While over 130,000 volunteers have applied globally, housing for paid workers remains a challenge, especially in Cortina and Verona. The Foundation is exploring accommodation solutions, including 456 law enforcement officers, though local response has been limited so far. Enthusiasm remains high, driven by the chance to be part of a historic event. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Bottega Veneta, the discreet luxury of “intrecciato” made in Vicenza turns 50 – Sept. 25, Il Giornale di Vicenza

It was 1980 when the Bottega Veneta intrecciato Pouch bag was seen by millions of viewers in American Gigolo on Lauren Hutton's arm. “Intrecciato” (literally, braided by hand) was introduced by the Vicenza-based fashion house in 1975, and half a century later continues to represent its strongest identity, so much so that it's been celebrated with a new advertising campaign starring Julianne Moore. The company was founded in Vicenza in 1966. “Intrecciato” was born almost by chance, from a technical constraint: the leather was too thin for machines to handle, so it was woven by hand to achieve greater consistency. That artisanal gesture over time became the stylistic hallmark of the production, a visual code recognizable from a distance, yet discreet. Half a century later, Bottega Veneta brought an updated version of the Pouch bag back to the runway, and she's once again taken center stage. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Former mayor Variati reflects on Peace Park: a legacy of vision and resilience – Sept. 23, IL Giornale di Vicenza

Former Vicenza Mayor Achille Variati calls Parco della Pace a vital legacy, not just a garden but a long-term investment in public space and civic well-being. Conceived as a symbolic counterpoint to the Del Din military base, the park spans 650 hectares and took years of negotiation and reclamation. Though not exactly as envisioned, Variati praises its development and the Possamai administration’s efforts. He emphasizes the need for events and tourism to sustain it, even imagining a navigable canal from the city center. Rejecting criticism over the lost airport, he affirms the park’s name honors memory and peace. He’ll attend the inauguration with pride. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

University of Virginia opens first international campus in Vicenza – Sept. 25, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The University of Virginia has officially opened its first campus outside the U.S. in Vicenza’s former bishop’s palace, Piazza Duomo. The initiative honors architect Mario di Valmarana, who launched UVA’s study program in Vicenza 50 years ago to explore Andrea Palladio’s legacy. The newly signed lease transforms the historic residence into a hub for education and cultural exchange. Students will begin arriving in May 2026, with full operations expected by early 2027. The building will host professors and students from the Mario di Valmarana Study Center. Local leaders, including Bishop Giuliano Brugnotto and Mayor Giacomo Possamai, praised the project as a bridge between cultures and a catalyst for growth in the city. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

University of Padua, one in four courses taught in English to expand global reach – Sept. 24, Il Mattino di Padova

This academic year, over 26 percent of courses at the University of Padua will be taught in English—a significant leap from 20 percent in 2022. The shift reflects a broader strategy of internationalization, aimed at attracting global talent and countering Italy’s demographic decline. The university now offers 55 programs entirely in a foreign language and 12 with partial English content, including six undergraduate and 48 master’s degrees. Since Rector Daniela Mapelli’s term began in 2021, English-taught master’s programs have nearly doubled. Faculty, many with international experience, have adapted easily to teaching in English. With 11 percent of students now coming from abroad, Padua is strengthening its reputation as a top-tier institution and a magnet for degree seekers worldwide. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Rauti scores twice, lifts Lane Vicenza to fourth straight win - Sept. 26, Il Giornale di Vicenza

Nicola Rauti scored two goals to lead Vicenza to a 2-1 comeback victory over Dolomiti Bellunesi on Sept. 25, securing the club’s fourth consecutive win. After conceding early, Vicenza equalized just before halftime when Rauti finished a cross from Caferri. The striker struck again in the 64th minute, assisted by Rada, to seal the win. Nearly 1,000 Vicenza supporters filled the Fontanafredda stadium, the temporary home of Dolomiti. Vicenza remains atop the standings, fueled by Rauti’s form and a renewed team spirit. The club continues its push for promotion with growing momentum. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Arzignano’s leather museum to bridge past and future - Sept. 26, Il Giornale di Vicenza

The leather industry in the Arzignano area is among the most important in the world: over 500 companies, nearly 11,000 employees, and an annual turnover exceeding 3 billion euros. Now, Italy's first interactive and experiential leather museum has opened at Via del Lavoro 22 in Arzignano, called Mile - Museum of Interactive Leather Experience. It's not a traditional museum, but an immersive experience that, through video mapping, multimedia installations, and educational workshops, takes visitors on a journey through the history of tanning, environmental challenges, and technological innovations. The museum is open to the public one Saturday morning per month, with reservations required through Eventbrite. For more information, visit https://www.milemuseum.it/ (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Bressanvido hosts Italy’s longest transhumance: 600 cows on a three-day journey – Sept. 24, VicenzaToday

It's the longest vertical transhumance in Italy: an 80-km walk from the mountain pastures to the plains, a three-day hike, 600 animals descending to the valley, and over 20,000 people witnessing the arrival on Sunday. Every year at the end of September, the herds depart from the mountain pastures in Marcesina, on the Asiago Plateau to embark on a journey of approximately 80 kilometers on foot. The Bressanvido transhumance is the reenactment of a centuries-old peasant and pastoral tradition. Necessity dictated the timing: in the summer, the cows were taken to the mountains, to the rich, fresh pastures, while in the fall they were forced to return to the plains. In 2019, UNESCO recognized this practice as an intangible cultural heritage. The most anticipated moment is the herds' arrival in Bressanvido, scheduled for the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 28. If you cannot be there, enjoy this video: https://www.vicenzatoday.it/social/transumanza-piu-lunga-italia-bressanvido-2025.html (Summary by Angela Balbo)

Dueville’s Oktoberfest : Bavarian flavors and Munich brews await – Sept. 23, Vicenzatoday

Proktoberfest returns to Dueville from September 26–28, 2025, celebrating Bavarian tradition with Munich beers, hearty dishes, and nightly music. Held in a 1,500 m² covered space at the former Lanerossi, the event features Paulaner, HB München, Hacker-Pschorr, and a gluten-free beer option—all served in glass mugs. The Bavarian menu includes speck dumplings, spätzle, XXL sausages, goulash, grilled chicken, and the new Nuremberg sausages, plus sides like sauerkraut and fried polenta. Evening concerts and DJ sets round out the festivities, with performances by White Label, Trimode, The Rhythm Enemies, and more. Rain or shine, the celebration is guaranteed. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Gambellara celebrates 97th Grape Harvest Festival with wine, food, and music – Sept. 23, Vicenzatoday

From September 26–29, 2025, Gambellara hosts the 97th Grape and Recioto Festival, a beloved tradition since the 1930s. The four-day event features wine tastings, local cuisine, markets, and live entertainment. The highlight is “Cantine in Piazza,” where wineries offer Recioto di Gambellara DOCG and other regional wines alongside food stands serving Vicenza specialties. Activities include children’s workshops, guided tours, and concerts each evening. Food stands are open nightly and Sunday at lunch. With its rich history and festive atmosphere, the event draws locals and visitors alike to celebrate Gambellara’s winemaking heritage. (Summary by Anna Ciccotti)

Torri di Quartesolo celebrates Rosary and Duck Festival next week - September 1, VicenzaToday

The traditional Rosary and Duck Festival in Torri di Quartesolo, held annually since 1763, will take place Oct. 3–6 this year. The food stand will feature excellent duck dishes along with many other specialties. There will be music, a cooking show, an amusement park, and a charity raffle with prizes. Convenient parking will be available behind the Torri di Quartesolo church on the soccer field. (Summary by Angela Balbo)

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