The Rosa Camuna Award, established in 1996 by the Lombardy Region, is the region’s highest honour for excellence and civic commitment. It is awarded to individuals, businesses or associations that stand out for their hard work, creativity and contribution to the economic, social, cultural or sporting development of Lombardy.
Originally, it was intended for five women committed to promoting women’s rights and equal opportunities, but in 2014 the criteria were expanded to include a wider range of candidates. Today, the award may be presented annually to up to five recipients. The ceremony takes place on 29 May, during the Festa della Lombardia, established in 2013 to commemorate the Battle of Legnano in 1176, when the Lombard League defeated the imperial army led by Frederick Barbarossa.