ROME — 1978 · Murder

The Kidnapping and Murder of Aldo Moro

SolvedSources: CLast updated: 14 October 2026

On 16 March 1978, former Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro was kidnapped in Rome by an armed group; five of his bodyguards were killed in the attack. Moro was held for 55 days, during which he wrote letters to his family and to political circles. The state's decision not to negotiate provoked deep debate within the country. On 9 May 1978, his body was found in the trunk of a car parked in the center of Rome. Following trials, numerous members of the armed group responsible were convicted; the case is regarded as the most emblematic of Italy's so-called 'Years of Lead.'

Date
1978
Place
Italy, Rome, IT
Category
Murder
Case Status
Solved
Coordinates
41.9028, 12.4964 ↗

Timeline of Events

  1. 1978He was kidnapped and five bodyguards were killed (March 16)
  2. 1978The 55-day period of captivity
  1. 1978His body was found (May 9)
  2. 1980'lerMembers of the group were tried and convicted

Sources

  • Court Records
  • Contemporary Press Archive

Source grade C: no linked source yet; details rely on the general press archive. If you spot a mistake or something missing, report it with "Suggest a correction" in the app.

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🕯️ This record was prepared with respect, in memory of those who lost their lives.