Italy is celebrating a monumental milestone in its infrastructure history: the 100th anniversary of the country’s first autostrada, a development that has shaped the nation's economy, culture, and mobility. The opening of the Autostrada dei Laghi in 1924 marked the beginning of a new era, not just for transportation, but for Italy’s connection to the rest of Europe.

This was the first stretch of what would become an extensive network of highways stretching across the nation, revolutionizing travel, trade, and regional development. The construction of the autostrade was not only a feat of engineering but also a bold vision for Italy’s modernity. In the early 20th century, Italy was a country struggling with uneven development, particularly between the industrialized north and the agricultural south.

The creation of the highway system bridged this gap, facilitating the movement of people and goods and promoting economic growth throughout the country. By the 1950s and 1960s, the highway network had expanded significantly, making long-distance travel easier and encouraging the rise of the car culture that became a symbol of Italian prosperity.

In addition to its economic and social impacts, the autostrada played a critical role in shaping Italy’s tourism. The ease of travel between cities, regions, and even neighboring countries made Italy more accessible to international visitors. Iconic highways such as the A1, stretching from Milan to Naples, became essential arteries that connected the country’s most famous landmarks, boosting tourism and creating a sense of national unity.

The 100th anniversary of Italy’s first highway is also a moment to reflect on the future of the autostrade. Today, Italian highways face new challenges, particularly in the context of sustainability and the push for greener mobility. Advances in electric vehicles, digital technologies, and autonomous driving are transforming the way Italians use their highways. The focus is now on modernizing the infrastructure, making it more sustainable and efficient, and addressing issues like congestion and environmental impact.

At the MAXXI Museum in Rome, the exhibition "Italia in movimento. Autostrade e futuro" (Italy in Motion: Highways and the Future) celebrates this centenary, offering a look at the past and future of Italy’s highways. It highlights the importance of autostrade in the country’s history and explores their role in Italy’s ongoing journey toward a sustainable and connected future.