The exhibition “Servus Inutilis: Alcide De Gasperi and politics as service” will be on display at the Chapel for Europe in Brussels from 5 to 28 November, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the life and political legacy of one of the founding fathers of democratic Italy and European integration. Info & Registration
A portrait of Alcide de Gasperi. (Photo: Comunione e Liberazione)
Promoted by the De Gasperi Foundation for the 2024 Rimini Meeting, the exhibition is now coming to Brussels in an English-language version, following a tour of several Italian cities. It has been translated and brought to Brussels by the Catholic movement ‘Communion and Liberation’.
The exhibition presents De Gasperi’s life and political experience through the lens of his understanding of politics as a form of service to the common good. A committed Christian and politician, De Gasperi described himself as a “servus inutilis” (“unprofitable servant”), expressing an understanding of public service rooted in responsibility towards others and the common good.
Imprisoned by the Fascist regime because of his political positions and later Prime Minister of the young Italian Republic, De Gasperi worked alongside Robert Schuman and Konrad Adenauer to lay the foundations of what is today the European Union.
For De Gasperi, political freedom and social justice could only be fully realised in a context of peace. In a famous speech delivered in Brussels on 20 November 1948, he emphasised the importance of building a just international order capable of fostering harmony and friendship among peoples, particularly in Europe. His understanding of peace also extended beyond relations between States, reflecting the attitude with which individuals relate to one another and his commitment to dialogue and cooperation.
The exhibition will be open at the Chapel for Europe, Rue van Maerlant 22–24, 1040 Etterbeek, from 5 to 28 November. Visitors can attend during the Chapel’s opening hours, Monday to Thursday from 12:00 to 14:00.
Guided tours are available in English, French and Italian. To book a guided visit, please write an email.
The public is also invited to the official opening and presentation of the exhibition:
Tuesday, 10 November 2026, at 18:30
Chapel for Europe
Rue van Maerlant 22–24, 1040 Etterbeek
For the official opening and presentation of the exhibition, registration is required. Click here to register for the opening.