Villa Emma, Historical villa in Nonantola, Italy
Villa Emma is an eclectically designed villa built in 1890 about two kilometers from Nonantola's center, created by architect Vincenzo Maestri for Carlo Sacerdoti. The building was originally a private residence and now functions as an international center for peace and solidarity with educational programs on Holocaust history.
The villa provided shelter from 1942 to 1943 for 73 Jewish children and 13 caregivers fleeing persecution, supported by the Nonantola community. This rescue operation was later honored by several local people who dedicated themselves to protecting those in danger.
The villa is now a place of remembrance for the rescue stories of Jewish children during World War II. Visitors find exhibitions and documents here showing how the local community offered shelter to those facing persecution.
The property is easily accessible from outside town and now houses an educational center with exhibitions on World War II history. Visitors should allow plenty of time to explore the collections and documents at a relaxed pace.
Giuseppe Moreali and Don Arrigo Beccari, two local figures, were recognized as Righteous Among the Nations in 1965 for their role in rescuing refugees. Their names now symbolize the courage of the community in helping people in extreme need.
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