Rome, December 15 (RHC)-- Students, pensioners and families with children filled Rome's Piazza San Giovanni over the weekend to protest against League's Leader Matteo Salvini.   Since their maiden protest in Bologna gathered an estimated 15,000 people, the popularity of the so-called "Sardines" has spread.

Supported have rallied under the name in several Italian cities, including Turin and Milan, to denounce Salvini, whose anti-immigrant, Italy-first rhetoric has resonated with many voters.

The demonstration in Rome appeared to be their largest so far, with a policeman at the scene estimating a turnout of 40,000 people.  There were no official figures from the organizers.  The movement denies any political affiliation and say they merely want to register their opposition to populist forces that are gaining strength in Italy after a decade of economic stagnation and sinking wages.