Edward Marchesi In Italy , state funerals are solemn ceremonies reserved for figures of exceptional national or international importance. These events, regulated by Law No. 36 of February 7, 1987, are characterized by strict protocols and military honors established by government institutions. But who is entitled to these honors and how are they conducted?
The state funeral is organized by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, in collaboration with the Department of State Ceremonies at Palazzo Chigi.
These ceremonies are mandatory for certain institutional positions, such as the President of the Republic, the Presidents of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, the Prime Minister, and the President of the Constitutional Court, both during and after their term.
Who is entitled to a state funeral
According to Law No. 36 of February 7, 1987, state funerals can also be granted to other personalities who have rendered particular services to the Fatherland.
This includes Italian and foreign citizens , as well as stateless persons, who have distinguished the nation in fields such as science, literature, the arts, work, economics, sport and social activities.
Funerals may also be granted to military personnel, members of the police force, or ordinary citizens who died during acts of terrorism, organized crime, or in the line of duty.
Furthermore, state funerals are entirely funded by the public treasury, covering the coffin, transportation of the body, preparation of the chapel of rest, decorations, and burial.
Protocols and ceremonies
State funerals follow strict protocols. The coffin is accompanied by two Carabinieri in full uniform or by members of the deceased's corps. In the case of the Head of State or a former Head of State, the coffin is carried on the shoulders of six Cuirassiers, preceded by a uniformed official from the presidential antechamber carrying a black velvet cushion bearing the Grand Cordon of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.
During these ceremonies, flags on public buildings are flown at half-mast, as directed by the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. The chapel of rest may be held at the deceased's institution, a location chosen by the family, or in accordance with local custom.
Famous personalities
Among the personalities from the world of culture who received state funerals, we can mention the director Federico Fellini, the tenor Giuseppe Pavarotti, the actor Alberto Sordi, the television host Mike Bongiorno and the poets Alda Merini and Eugenio Montale.
Recently, former Senator Emma Bonino also received the honor of a state funeral. Bonino's funeral chapel was set up in the Protomoteca del Campidoglio in Rome, with an official commemoration on Tuesday, September 12, 2026. Former MP Raffaele Costa also received a state funeral on Monday, September 14, 2026, in the Cathedral of San Donato in Mondovì (Cuneo).
These events not only honor deceased personalities, but also represent a moment of reflection for the entire nation, remembering the extraordinary contribution these figures made to Italian society.