Italian Culture Minister Defends Fascist Squatters
Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli has sparked controversy by suggesting that the far-right group Casa Pound could "align with legality" and should not be evicted from its illegally occupied building in central Rome. This contradicts Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's recent statement that "no free zones or areas outside the law can exist in a state of law." Casa Pound has occupied a state-owned palazzo in Rome's historic center for over 21 years, causing an estimated €4.5 million in damages by 2019. Multiple court rulings have condemned the group, including a 2022 sentence describing it as "a movement openly inspired by fascist ideology" known for violence and racism. In June 2023, a judge convicted 20 members for illegal occupation, noting no housing purpose. In July 2025, leader Gianluca Iannone and others were convicted for violent clashes with police. Giuli's stance has been widely criticized as embarrassing and out of touch.
Key facts
- Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli said Casa Pound could 'align with legality' and should not be evicted.
- Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni stated no areas can be outside the law.
- Casa Pound has illegally occupied a state-owned building in central Rome for over 21 years.
- Estimated damages from the occupation reached €4.5 million by 2019.
- A 2022 court ruling called Casa Pound a 'movement openly inspired by fascist ideology'.
- In June 2023, 20 members were convicted for illegal occupation with no housing purpose.
- In July 2025, leader Gianluca Iannone and others were convicted for violent clashes with police.
- Giuli's position has been widely criticized as embarrassing.
Entities
Institutions
- Casa Pound
- Artribune
- Leoncavallo
Locations
- Rome
- Italy
- Milan
- Casal Bertone