Bombing of Palermo in World War II

The city of Palermo, Sicily, experienced extensive bombing during World War II, targeted by five different air forces: French, British, American, Italian, and German. The attacks began in 1940 with French raids and continued through 1943, intensifying as Allied forces prepared to invade Sicily. Key events include:

The bombings resulted in severe damage: over 100,000 rooms destroyed or damaged, 40% of pre-war housing lost, and 69,000 rooms rendered uninhabitable, leaving 60,000 homeless. Cultural landmarks such as churches and palaces suffered greatly, with 119 historic buildings damaged or destroyed. Civilian casualties totaled 2,123 dead and thousands injured.

The destruction led to significant changes in the city's landscape, including the creation of an artificial beach from rubble. Many bomb-damaged buildings remain unrepaired, serving as reminders of the war's impact.

References include works by Albergoni, Crisafulli, Bellomo, Picciotto, Romeo, and Rothier, detailing the chronology and effects of the bombings.