Venetians feel affection and loyalty to their city, rather than to the Italian state.
This quote highlights the unique regional identity of Venetians, emphasizing a deep-rooted sense of belonging and devotion to their city of Venice. It underscores how local pride and cultural particularities can sometimes overshadow national allegiances, fostering a strong community bond rooted in shared history and traditions. Such sentiments remind us of the importance of regional identities in shaping individual and collective sense of belonging, especially in regions with distinct histories and cultures like Venice. Recognizing this local loyalty enriches our understanding of regional differences within a nation and the power of local culture in defining identity.