Terrible Earthquake in Central Italy, 267 Killed, Epicenter Near Norcia

Catholic Culture: The powerful earthquake that ripped through Italy, leaving more than 120 people dead (latest count 267), had its epicenter near Norcia, the home of St. Benedict, and drove monks there to seek temporary safety in Rome.

The Benedictine community at Norcia reported no casualties from the earthquake, but serious damage to the monastery buildings and particularly to St. Benedict’s basilica. “It will take some time to assess the extent of the damage,” said a statement from the Norcia monks; “but it is very sad to see the many beautiful restorations we’ve made to St. Benedict’s birthplace reduced, in a moment, to disrepair.”  More here and latest here.