Families evacuated from Gaza for medical care recently enjoyed a day of decompression at Rome's ancient Baths of Caracalla, a historic site near the Colosseum. The event, organized by the volunteer group Guides for Gaza, aimed to provide a respite from the ongoing war and medical treatments.
A Unique Experience at the Baths of Caracalla
The Baths of Caracalla, once a place of leisure and healthcare for ancient Romans, offered Palestinian children and their families a chance to relax and socialize. Luisa delle Fratte, a tour guide with Guides for Gaza, explained to The Associated Press that the outing included a tour of the archaeological site, snacks, games, and moments of togetherness.
Ordinary Italian families were also present, enjoying the spring sunshine. The Palestinian families, now residing in Rome, blended in seamlessly, taking selfies in front of the ruins and watching the reflecting pool's water jets. Organizers intended the day as a break from the trauma of war and medical care.
Personal Stories of Loss and Resilience
Thirteen-year-old Ahmed Skena shared his harrowing experience: "I was injured and lost my ability to speak, as well as mobility and normal function in my hand and leg." He added that he also lost his father and brother in the war. Mariam Dawwas, 25, attended with her husband and four young children, one of whom is ill. She expressed gratitude for being safe in Italy after being displaced over ten times.
Some families reunited at the event, having known each other in Gaza but not seen one another since evacuation. Delle Fratte remarked, "It was very beautiful to see them there embracing again and meeting one another once more."
Support Through Tours and Donations
While Palestinian families toured the ruins, other guides offered tours to Italians in exchange for donations to Gazelle, a nonprofit involved in child protection projects in Gaza. The war began with a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages. Since then, over 72,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, whose records are considered reliable by U.N. agencies.
