On Piazza Cairoli in the center of Milan stands a monument to the great military commander, fighter for justice, and national hero of Italy, Giuseppe Garibaldi. All his life he fought for the unification of his beloved country, torn apart by civil wars and foreign invaders. Ironically, even now one of the streets adjoining Piazza Cairoli bears the name of Italy's conqueror Bonaparte, yet it leads straight to the monument of the country's liberator, Garibaldi.
Mid-19th century. Italy resembles a boiling cauldron. Even after Napoleon's overthrow, the Austrian Empire still holds sway there. At the same time, the entire territory is fragmented into small pieces. At that time, only a "madman and dreamer" could dream of peace and tranquility in one large, united Italy. And that was exactly the kind of man Giuseppe Garibaldi became. He took part in countless battles and skirmishes, defending freedom and proclaiming independence. Moreover, as he liberated the lands of Italy from invaders, he abolished taxes, which earned him the great love and respect of the people. Hundreds and thousands were ready to follow him, and not even the king could rival his fame.
Yet after spending his entire life at war, Giuseppe eventually declared himself a pacifist. But his name remained etched in history for a long time. The many monuments and streets named in Garibaldi's honor will not let new generations forget his deeds. Likewise, the monument in Milan depicts the hero returning from war astride his faithful horse. Near the pedestal stand two bronze sculptures symbolizing Freedom and Revolution.
