Europa ’51

film by Rossellini [1952]

Also known as: “The Greatest Love”

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July 16, 2026

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Europa '51 is a 1952 Italian film directed by Roberto Rossellini and starring Ingrid Bergman. The film is part of Rossellini's "Neorealist trilogy," which also includes Stromboli (1949) and Voyage to Italy (1953).12

The movie is set in post-World War II Italy and explores themes of social injustice and spiritual crisis. Ingrid Bergman plays Irene, a wealthy woman who becomes disillusioned with her privileged life and seeks to understand the suffering of the poor. Her journey leads her to question societal norms and her own role in a world marked by poverty and hardship. The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of everyday life and its exploration of complex moral and existential questions.12

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Ingrid Bergman
Scandal and later films
…and French films such as Europa ’51 (1952; The Greatest Love) and Viaggio in Italia (1954; Journey to Italy). During this time she married (1950–57) Rossellini, and the couple had two more children, including Isabella Rossellini, who became a noted model and actress.
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…and French films such as Europa ’51 (1952; The Greatest Love) and Viaggio in Italia (1954; Journey to Italy). During this time she married (1950–57) Rossellini, and the couple had two more children, including Isabella Rossellini, who became a noted model and actress.
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