Villa Emma

Between 1942 and 1943 Villa Emma was a hiding place for about 100 Jewish children from different European countries. They were supported by the citizens, doctor and priest of Nonantola.
When the Germans occupied Italy the children found shelter on a different location, again with help of the people of Nonantola. Finally they succeeded in their escape to Switzerland.

These days Villa Emma is an international Center for peace and solidarity. The Villa Emma Foundation, launched by Nonantola's mayor, Stefano Vaccari, promotes peace and Holocaust education. The story of the villa can be seen in the Italian movie "La Fuga degli innocenti" (The escape of the innocents); the international title is "Hidden Children". This movie was released in 2004.

For current visiting hours, please visit the website of the museum.

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Source

• Text: Jeroen Koppes
• Photos: Lennard Bolijn