Vergarolla massacre commemorations mark 80th anniversary

Commemorations are being organized to mark the 80th anniversary of the Vergarolla massacre, which occurred on August 18, 1946, in Pula. The event, which devastated a beach during a sporting event, remains a significant moment in the history of the Italian communities in Istria, Fiume, and Dalmatia.

In Pula, ceremonies will include a boat procession to the Vergarolla beach for wreath-laying, a Mass at the Cathedral, and a blessing of a commemorative monument. The monument has recently been updated to include the names of 64 identified victims. A documentary exhibition titled ‘The Forgotten Massacre. Vergarolla and its hero, Dr. Geppino Micheletti’ will also be inaugurated.

In Pescara, Italy, local committees and provincial authorities will hold an afternoon of remembrance and historical analysis. The program will feature historical reconstructions of the political tensions preceding the Julian-Dalmatian exodus and include testimonies from survivors. Special attention will be given to Dr. Geppino Micheletti, the surgeon who provided medical aid for over 24 hours following the explosion despite losing his own children in the tragedy.