Devastating Fire Destroys 17th-Century Monastery in Northern Italy
A violent fire has completely destroyed the Bernaga monastery, a historic 17th-century building in La Valletta Brianza, northern Italy, with no casualties reported, according to the Italian civil protection agency on Sunday.
Fire Outbreak and Evacuation
The flames broke out on Saturday evening in the upper part of the building and quickly spread to the entire structure, largely made of wood, added the same source, specifying that the 22 nuns residing there were evacuated safely.
Loss of Art and Valuables
Numerous artworks, valuable paintings, and "priceless objects" are believed to have been destroyed by the flames, according to local media, noting that the fire is now under control and cleanup efforts are underway.
Aftermath and Damage Assessment
On Sunday, images showed beams, tiles, and pieces of plaster littering the ground, while from above, the monastery appeared as a black carpet of smoldering ashes.
Reaction from Local Authorities
The mayor of La Valletta Brianza, Marco Panzeri, lamented "a catastrophe, immense and incalculable damage," estimating that the fire was caused by a short circuit in one of the cells of the Ambrosian hermit nuns.
Historical Significance of the Monastery
The La Valletta Brianza monastery, located near Milan, was founded in 1628.
