Filippo Beltrami 

Hello, I’m Filippo Maria Beltrami. I was an Italian partisan and anti-fascist. My life is a testimony of courage and political commitment in the fight against Fascism and the Nazi occupation. I was born in Cireggio on 4th July 1908. From a young age, I was passionate about culture and politics. During high school in Cireggio, I formed a strong friendship with Eugenio Colorni and Piero Martinetti, two key figures in contemporary philosophy. In 1932, I graduated in Architecture and began my career in Milan. In 1936, I married Giuliana Gadola, daughter of a famous builder. Giuliana joined the Resistance with me, becoming a leading figure in the Milan ANPI (National Association of Italian Partisans) until 2005. During World War II, I was enlisted as a mounted gunner in Lucca and Piacenza. In 1943, I was promoted to captain in the 27th Artillery Regiment of Baggio. After the armistice of 8th September 1943, my family and I took refuge in Cireggio, in a family villa. There, I became a reference point for local anti-fascist groups and quickly started training young partisans. Sadly, fate was cruel. On 13th February  1944, I lost my life in a firefight with enemy forces near Pieve Vergonte, in Megolo, Ossola, along with 11 other partisans. My death was a significant loss to the Italian Resistance, but my sacrifice and example of struggle remain etched in collective memory. After my passing, my legacy has been celebrated as a symbol of the sacrifice and determination of the first Resistance fighters. The Alpine Brigade "Beltrami," of the Valtoce Division, which also operated in the Ossola Republic, was named in my honor. The street in Novara bearing my name is another recognition of my historical importance.