After the Italian armistice in September 1943, war broke out in northern Italy between partisans and fascist soldiers of the Republic of Salò. Especially after the fall of the Ossola Partisan Republic in October 1944, the La Carità Hospital took in and treated numerous wounded and sick people who found refuge in Switzerland.

Only a few documents remain from that period, so it is not surprising that this chapter in the history of the city of Locarno has been almost forgotten. The 80th anniversary of the end of World War II provides an opportunity to look back and celebrate the role played by La Carità Hospital, which at that time became one of the most active and crucial institutions in providing aid and relief during the conflict.

Programme

12.00-12.20 – Introductory and institutional greetings
Alberto Piatti, Director of SUPSI-DFA/ASP
Marina Carobbio Guscetti, State Councillor and Director of the Dipartimento dell'educazione, della cultura e dello sport
Nicola Pini, Mayor of the city of Locarno
Paolo Sanvido, President of the Cantonal Hospital Authority

12.20-12.55 – Insights
Rodolfo Huber, Archivist of the City of Locarno and author of the book Il Locarnese e il suo ospedale (Locarno and its hospital)
Sonia Castro Mallamaci, Associate Professor of History Education, and Lisa Fornara, Senior Professional Lecturer, SUPSI-DFA/ASP
Alexander Grass, Journalist and member of the Gruppo per la memoria 1943 – 1945
Testimony of Massimo Bianchi, son of Adriano Bianchi (patient at La Carità Hospital in 1944)

13:00 – Unveiling of the commemorative plaque and aperitif offered

Participation

Participation is free and open to all interested parties.
Please register using the online form.

***
Image taken from the book ‘Il Locarnese e il suo ospedale’ edited by Rodolfo Huber, Armando Dadò Editore, 2000