Pontida, a town symbolizing Italy's Lega party, is preparing for the funeral of its founder, Umberto Bossi, who has passed away at the age of 84. Hours before the funeral, anticipated attendees include hundreds of party militants arriving to mourn their leader. The town has set up a large screen outside the abbey to accommodate those who cannot enter the church, with space for only about 400 guests, including family and authorities. Among the notable figures expected to attend is Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

The atmosphere surrounding the abbey is charged with emotion as party symbols and diverse generations of supporters gather to pay tribute. The green handkerchiefs bearing the Sun of the Alps and flags featuring the Lion of St. Mark are prominently displayed, representing the legacy and unity within the party. Many attendees have traveled from various northern regions of Italy, illustrating Bossi's significant influence across the country and his role in shaping the Lega's identity as a regional movement.

Reflecting on Bossi’s impact, attendees express deep admiration for him, highlighting his role as an ideological figure within the party. The sentiment among the supporters underscores the importance of Bossi's leadership in defining the party's direction and its connection to issues of regional autonomy and identity within Italy. This gathering not only serves to honor Bossi but also reinforces the collective memory of the Lega’s journey under his stewardship, showcasing both loyalty and nostalgia among the ranks of the party.