Terni: The Evolution of a Steel City from Red to Black

In the heart of central Italy’s Umbria region lies Terni, a city undergoing a fascinating evolution from its industrial steel roots to a newfound political landscape. Known for its annual Choco-lentine’s Festival and Festival of the Promise, Terni has a rich history intertwined with the legacy of its famous native, Saint Valentine. The city’s efforts to attract tourists and reinvent itself have been spearheaded in recent years, showcasing a blend of tradition and modernity.

Once dubbed ‘the Italian Manchester‘ due to its steel industry, Terni’s identity was deeply rooted in blue-collar labor and socialist activism. Figures like oral historian Alessandro Portelli have shed light on the city’s working-class past, including the story of Luigi Trastulli, a steelworker turned folk martyr. The city’s historical narrative is a mosaic of industrial heritage and political upheaval, shaping its present-day trajectory.

However, Terni’s political landscape has shifted dramatically in recent years, marked by the rise of right-wing parties like Lega and the decline of traditional left-wing forces. The city’s steel industry has faced challenges, leading to downsizings and privatizations that have reshaped its economic and social fabric. With the waning influence of labor unions and progressive movements, Terni finds itself at a crossroads of identity and ideology.

Alessandro Portelli’s latest work delves into this transformation, exploring the ‘right-wing turn of a workers’ city’ and the implications for its residents. As political allegiances realign and economic realities shift, Terni grapples with a new era of governance and civic engagement. The legacy of its industrial past collides with the uncertainties of the present, setting the stage for a nuanced political landscape.

From workers’ strikes to electoral upsets, Terni’s journey reflects broader trends in Italian politics and society. The emergence of figures like Stefano Bandecchi and the resurgence of nationalist sentiment signal a complex evolution in the city’s worldview. As Terni navigates the challenges of the 21st century, its history continues to inform its present, shaping the debates and decisions that will define its future.