Pietro Gallo (1841-1916) and the introduction of compulsory gymnastics in Venetian schools during the 19th century

Abstract

The paper analyses the innovations introduced in gymnastics by Pietro Gallo in Venetian schools. In 1868 Gallo obtained from the municipal authorities that the teaching of gymnastic exercises based on the studies of Spiess and Reyer be made compulsory in all Venetian schools. The introduction of this discipline in primary schools marked a turning point in its normalization. Gallo was inspired by the contemporary experience conducted by Francesco Cajol in Verona and anticipated a legislative norm introduced nationwide with the De Sanctis law in 1878.