It was only a few days ago when we all read the sad news of the Cologne, Germany city achives being badly damaged by a building collapse. Now the news services are full of stories about the tragic earthquake in the mountainous Abruzzo region of Italy. The first stories told of the terrible loss of life. Now we are hearing that priceless Italian monuments, historic buildings and works of art have been damaged or destroyed.
Genealogists and historians will be saddened to hear that serious damage occurred at the Abruzzo state archives. The total damage is not yet known as rescue crews have higher priorities at the moment: rescuing people. However, first reports say that the damage is "extensive."
