For the first time in history, the entire Arbëresh community of Italy came together in one place to celebrate their heritage, culture, and unity during the inaugural Giorno dell’Orgoglio Arbëresh – the Day of Arbëresh Pride.

Held in the Arbëresh town of Spezzano Albanese, the event brought together mayors, cultural groups, and proud Arbëresh from across Italy — from Sicily to Molise — many of whom paid their own way just to be present for this historic occasion.

At the heart of the celebration stood the inauguration of a new monument dedicated to the flag of Arbëria: a unique symbol featuring the Italian tricolor with the Albanian double-headed eagle at its center. The emotional moment marked a major step forward in giving the Arbëresh people a national symbol to rally behind.

This pride-filled gathering was part of Expo Arbëria, a larger cultural development project aimed at strengthening and uniting the Arbëresh identity throughout Italy.

The streets of Spezzano Albanese were filled with parades, traditional costumes, and the spirit of a people reconnecting with their roots — in a way never seen before.