Earthquake Destroys Benedictine Basilica in Norcia, Italy

05-600Italy was struck by another powerful earthquake last week. It was the third major earthquake to hit the country in the last two months and the strongest in 36 years. Although no deaths were reported, it destroyed several churches, including the ancient Basilica of St. Benedict in Norcia. The basilica was built over the site where the founder of the Benedictine order was born in 480. Cultural authorities estimate 5,000 historic buildings have been damaged by the series of earthquakes that have shaken central Italy. The quakes have also left many homeless. There are an estimated 22,000 people living in shelters.

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