1st anniversary of central Italy quake

(ANSA) - Rome, August 24 - In Amatrice and other towns of the areas hit the worst by the August 24 earthquake last year, the night was marked by commemorative activities.
    The earthquake struck at 3.36 AM and destroyed entire towns and communities, leaving 299 victims under the rubble, 249 of whom in the towns of Amatrice and Accumoli alone. It was in Amatrice that a candle-lit procession was held over the night that ended with 249 bell tolls. The procession was preceded by the reading of the biographies of the victims and followed by prayers. Mayor Sergio Pirozzi unveiled a monument in memory of those who lost their lives and a day of mourning for the town has been declared. Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni paid a visit to the area on Thursday and attended Mass there.
    photo: monument erected in Don Minozzi Park in Amatrice