May 6, 1976: the devastating earthquake that changed Friuli forever (who still thanks for the solidarity and does not forget)

Every year, on May 6, a huge wound reopens for the inhabitants of Friuli-Venezia Giulia. 49 years have passed since the region was shocked by a terrible earthquake, which caused almost a thousand deaths over 100,000 displaced people. At 9 pm, for about 60 interminable seconds, the land trembled, raising dozens of municipalities on the ground. The 6.5 magnitude shock of the Richter Scala, considered The fifth most devastating earthquake ever for Italywas even felt in Rome.

The Municipalities of Gemona, Venzone, Osoppo and Cividale del Friuli They were among the most affected by the catastrophic earthquake. The medieval churches, the historic buildings and the rural houses, which had resisted for centuries, collapsed in a few seconds. The panorama changed drastically, and the countries that had seen the passage of entire generations became scenarios of desolation.

The extraordinary power of solidarity

The balance was tragic: hundreds of victims, missing and tens of thousands of citizens left without home, while the rescuers found themselves facing an emergency of extraordinary proportions. The hospitals, already overloaded, struggled to cope with the growing number of injuries. Fear and pain were palpable, but the solidarity and determination of the population, Supported by national and international rescue groups, they immediately emerged as a lighthouse of hope in the midst of devastation.

And after almost 50 years, Friulian citizens remember that dramatic page of history on social media to keep memory alive, but also to express gratitude for the solidarity that came from all over the country in that moment of difficulty and pain.

Friuli thanks and does not forget

49 years have passed, we must never forget the victims, rescue, solidarity and aids, the ability to reaction and viewing those who have ruled important choices and managed difficult moments, of extraordinary entrepreneurs. – Roberto Revelant, the mayor of Gemona del Friuli, epicenter of the earthquake writes on Facebook. – We must be proud of the Friulian people, then put to the test, but which was confirmed to be honest, tireless worker, courageous and determined. From that experience, even today, we have a lot to learn, we too, children of the same land.

Punctually, May 6 of each year for the Friulian people relives that drama that has marked him deeply. And despite the pain, Friuli thanks and does not forget:

The importance of memory and prevention

Today, after almost half a century, the anniversary of the Friuli earthquake represents a moment of reflection and commemoration. The scars left by that night are still visible in the ruins of some countries, but above all in the hearts of the Friulian community, however, he has been able to get up with strength and courage. The memory of May 6, 1976 is essential not only to remember the victims and suffering, but also to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and preparation for seismic emergencies.

Over the years, in fact, many progress has been made in seismic mapping, in the construction of safer buildings and in the promotion of prevention and preparation policies. The Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, together with the other local authorities, has invested in the raising awareness of the population, so that the new generations can be ready.