Belli Ciao

Noah Liechti

Noah Liechti’s comics are often inspired by curious experiences in everyday life, but also address urgent political and social issues. In his new work „Belli Ciao“ we embark on a journey back to 1943: in northern Italy, resistance against fascism and National Socialism is taking shape. In the mountains around Domodossola, various independent partisan groups are active. Grueling marches in all weather, poor food, and constant fear define the partisans’ daily lives. The horrors of war almost inevitably lead to brutalization, and the line between „necessary“ violence—if such a thing exists—and war crimes is perilously thin. The comic „Belli Ciao“ by illustrator Noah Liechti is based on the experiences of former partisan Adriano Bianchi and offers insights into the Italian resistance movement without romanticizing it. At the same time, it acknowledges the courage it takes to stand up to the clutches of fascism—and raises questions that seem more relevant today than ever.