On 23 November 1980, an earthquake of magnitude 6,9 struck Campania and Basilicata, two southern regions in Italy. One of the towns most hit was Sant'Angelo dei Lombardi.
These photographs depict the dramatic few days of the earthquake's aftermath. I clearly remember the arduous climb of boulders and debris to reach the town and the feeling of horror that followed. All the buildings had collapsed: the town hall, the hospital, the school, the houses, and the churches.
The catastrophe inflicted on the city was visible in people's expressions. The heartbreak and despair of the first hour turned into bewilderment, and the silence of the next day turned into confusion as the rescuers began to arrive.
