In Pisa last Friday, a group of Italian students organized a demonstration, advocating for an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. They draped the Palestinian flag from the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, a symbolic gesture of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“The Leaning Tower of Pisa is now occupied, demanding a ceasefire! This morning, a multitude marched through Pisa’s streets, urging an immediate halt to the ongoing shelling in Gaza that has persisted for over a month,” declared the students in a statement shared on the social network Facebook*.
The report highlights that the procession of demonstrators reached the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where “the Palestinian flag was raised in solidarity with the Palestinian people.” Images capturing this act were also posted on Facebook*.
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As per accounts, approximately 15 students “entered the Leaning Tower of Pisa, bypassing security, and hung a massive Palestinian flag from the world’s most famous bell tower.” Although the organizers ignited several smoke bombs, no harm was inflicted upon the historical and cultural monument.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Italy. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city of Pisa.
Previously, widespread demonstrations expressing solidarity with Palestine unfolded in various Italian cities, including Rome and Milan, with active participation from youth and students. On November 6, a faction of students from Naples Orientale University occupied the main building of the institution, displaying a banner above its entrance in support of the Palestinian people.
Reaction and Subsequent Unfolding The assembly dissipated as approximately 500 protestors, having paraded through Pisa’s main thoroughfares, reached the Piazza dei Miracoli. The police are currently involved in identifying the participants in the demonstration. Despite the unexpected nature of the protest and the forceful entry into the monument, the episode concluded in an organized manner, leaving behind a resonant message of tenacity and advocacy for justice.
