During World War II, "Alberico Da Barbiano" was part of the 4th Cruiser Division. On 9 July 1940 "Da Barbiano" was present at the Battle of Calabria (Punto Stilo). In summer 1940 she also participated in some escort and minelaying missions between Italy and North Africa. Due to the weakness of the class, on 1 September 1940 she was assigned as a training ship in Pola, but on 1 March 1941 was returned to active service.