Ylenia Maria Citino
This paper explores the evolution of the constitutional status of Rome within Italy’s legal and political framework, arguing that the city’s symbolic and functional significance as the capital remains underdeveloped. Despite its central place in Italian history and identity, Rome’s constitutional status has long been ambiguous in legal terms, only formally recognized in 2001. The author examines how this legal uncertainty has hindered effective governance and limited Rome’s potential as a global capital. It suggests that Rome should not merely be treated as a municipality but recognized as a unique territorial entity with enhanced powers. The study further stresses on the need to reconcile Rome’s dual identity, as both a national symbol and a functioning urban center, through a more coherent legal framework. Drawing on Rome’s example and recent legislative efforts, the paper not only advocates for a constitutional reform that moves beyond piecemeal legislation, granting Rome greater autonomy and a clearer institutional identity, but more in general argues that capital cities shall be emancipated from the state-centred vision of post-war constitutions.
