AS Roma: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Words: Valerio Curcio
Images: Valerio Curcio
The date conventionally recognised by Roma fans for the birth of the club is 22 July 1927. Although it was proven a few years ago that the club was born on 7 June of that year, the fans have kept the tradition of 22 July (after all, it is often said here that even Jesus was not really born on 25 December...).
Traditionally, on the night of 21 July, Roma fans invade the city's historic centre, specifically Via Uffici del Vicario 35, next to the Italian Parliament, where the club's first headquarters were located and where the club's Order of the Day No. 1 was issued. There they wait for midnight, when everyone lights smoke bombs and pyrotechnics of various kinds.
Moreover, for some years now, after waiting for midnight at Via Uffici del Vicario, the ultras groups of Roma organise another surprise action. Last year it was at Castel Sant'Angelo, this year it was at the Isola Tiberina. An island on the Tiber that is the cradle of Roman civilisation (it was the easiest river crossing in ancient times). There was another fireworks display there, with many fans down on the island and many more on the Garibaldi Bridge overlooking the Tiber, making chants in response from top to bottom.
A symbolic action to represent the unbreakable bond between the city of Rome and the team that bears its name, colours and symbol.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
©Valerio Curcio/ Terrace Edition. AS Roma.
You can find Valerio on Twitter and Instagram: @ValerioCurcio
