Hitler meets Mussolini in Rome

On 3 May 1938 Adolf Hitler arrives in Rome for a state visit. In protest Pope  Pius XI has left Rome for the duration of the visit. To please the German „Führer“ and to strengthen ties to the Reich, the „Duce“ Benito Mussolini announces the issuance of anti-Semitic laws in Italy. Furthermore he declares the Alps to be the natural border for both countries’ respective spheres of influence. Hitler accepts the continuance of South Tyrol as a province of Italy.

© Werckmeister Photograph of ceremony at the Olympic Stadium of the Foro Mussolini in honor of Hitler's visit in Rome, May 1938