Domicile of the Levi family

In August 1993, Rome resident Laura Fabrizio recalled the story of the Levi family who were interned in San Donato Val di Comino during World War II.

In 1941, the Podesta asked Laura's mother to take in a family of interned Jews. Thus, Enrico, Gabriella and little Italo Levi found shelter in their house on Via Sbarra. In the four years of living together, their second child, Noemi, was born. The Levi family initially lived quietly, cultivating a vegetable garden and raising chickens.

Life became more difficult from September 1943. Laura recalls how her family helped internees, hiding them in a cave during German raids. Enrico Levi adapted to working as a porter to transport food supplies. The other Jewish women often visited Gabriella, maintaining a strong sense of community.

In 1944, the situation precipitated. One day, Enrico, Gabriella and the children were captured by the Germans. Despite Laura and her mother's attempts to hide them or make them escape, the Levi's were deported. Enrico, separated from his family, managed to survive because of his knowledge of languages.

A year later, Enrico sent a telegram announcing that he had miraculously survived. Back in San Donato, he recounted how Gabriella and the children had died in the gas chambers. Enrico returned to Italy and lived for a time in Florence, where Laura met him on her honeymoon. Later, Enrico died, leaving an indelible memory among those who knew him.

Visit San Donato Val di Comino to discover this touching story of courage and resilience. The memory of the Levi family and their connection to the local community represent a significant chapter in the country's history.