Since 1946, the Vespa has been a symbol of Italy’s post-war rebirth. The scooter became the epitome of Italian lightness and the economic miracle. For its 80th birthday, thousands of enthusiasts gathered in the capital to celebrate the legend on wheels.
The parade passed Rome’s most famous landmarks: the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia. The roar of engines echoed through the narrow streets of the old town. Many participants had lovingly decorated their Vespas or wore retro clothing from the 1950s and 1960s.
The Vespa was developed in 1946 by the company Piaggio in Pontedera near Pisa. It was intended as a cheap and practical means of transport for the post-war period – and quickly became a cult object. Films such as “Roman Holiday” and “The Great Beauty” made the scooter world-famous.
Source: www.faz.net
