Pistoia social history explored in new book on abandoned girls

Researcher Maria Cristina Mengozzi has released a new book titled ‘Le fanciulle abbandonate di Pistoia. Storia ed evoluzione degli Istituti nati in loro soccorso’ (The abandoned girls of Pistoia. History and evolution of the Institutes born to help them). Published by Edizioni Polistampa, the volume examines over four centuries of assistance provided to young girls in Pistoia, Italy.

Using archival documents, regulations, and photographs, the work reconstructs the history of the Conservatorio delle Fanciulle abbandonate and the Rifugio Pelagia Romoli. The book focuses on the lives of orphans and girls from impoverished families who sought refuge in these institutions. While these centers provided protection, education, and practical skills, they also imposed strict obedience and limited the women's futures primarily to domestic service or marriage.

The book includes personal testimonies, such as the memories of Angelina and Antonietta Orgolesu, who entered the refuge in 1928. The author uses these historical accounts to draw parallels with contemporary issues regarding economic precariousness and social vulnerability faced by women in Italy today.