Focus: The Halberd and the Compass – Presentation at Palazzo Gopcevich

In the evocative vaulted rooms of the Sala Bazlen at Palazzo Gopcevich in Trieste, the presentation of Michele Valente's book, "The Halberd and the Compass: The Rebirth of Freemasonry in Trieste (1947-1954)", took place on the afternoon of 20 December. This is the first volume in the editorial series "History, Ethics and Society", promoted by the Manlio Cecovini Study Society. The event was organised by the Association with the contribution of the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia and the support of the Association for Culture and Freedom.

The book delves into the complex resurgence of Triestine Freemasonry in the post-war period, in a context marked by the collapse of fascism, Nazi occupation, and the uncertainty of the Free Territory of Trieste. Valente’s text reconstructs the delicate role played by the lodges in defending Trieste’s Italian identity against the backdrop of the intense political and social tensions of the time.

Through unpublished documents, the author sheds light on the role of Freemasonry in countering Yugoslav pressures and facilitating the reunification of the Adriatic centre with Italy in 1954. The Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, in particular, played a key role in this effort, driven by influential figures such as Marino Lapenna.

During the presentation, the connection between the lodges and other local institutions, such as the National League and the People's University, was highlighted, offering a broader view of the region’s social and cultural dynamics.

The discussion also touched on the wider significance of Italian Freemasonry, emphasising how it preserved initiatory traditions and humanitarian values during the Risorgimento, the fascist period, and the post-war era. Its contribution to cultural resistance and the struggle for the Italian identity of the Julian port was fundamental.

The presentation concluded with a heartfelt tribute to Michele Valente, whose work represents an essential contribution to Trieste’s historical memory. "The Halberd and the Compass" reaffirms the city’s profound bond with Freemasonry.

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