Thousands of Vespa riders took to Rome's streets to mark the iconic scooter's 80th birthday. The wasp-waisted vehicle became a symbol of Italy's rebirth after World War II.

On Saturday, riders from around the world paraded through Rome to celebrate the anniversary. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri said the Vespa's history, which accompanies Italy's post-war rise, is an iconic symbol of the country's culture and history.

Designed as an affordable means of transport, the Vespa (Italian for "wasp") was launched in 1946 by Piaggio, a major aircraft manufacturer. Gualtieri described it as "the symbol of an Italy emerging from the war and getting back on its feet."

The scooter featured in classic films like the 1953 romantic comedy "Roman Holiday" and the 1960 drama "La Dolce Vita," as well as "The Talented Mr. Ripley" and the animated "Luca."

The four-day festivities began Thursday with the inauguration of a "Vespa Village" at the Foro Italico in northern Rome, culminating Saturday with thousands of riders zipping through the streets.

Vespa has been in continuous production for 80 years and is now sold in about 100 countries. Matteo Colaninno, executive chairman of the Piaggio group, said the Vespa has become a global phenomenon, with nearly 20 million vehicles produced since 1946.

Source: www.dw.com