When the town of Mirandola in northern Italy was hit by a powerful earthquake last May, its historic center was devastated, delivering a heavy blow to the spirits of town residents.

For 2,000 years it has remained mired in the mud of the northern Mediterranean Sea.

Two Italian researchers claim they have identified some 100 early drawings by famous Baroque painter Caravaggio.

Tension is growing for thousands of Italian seniors who may have to face months, or even years, without a source of income after the retirement age was raised under new pension reforms.

Another earthquake has rattled northern Italyu, this one a 5.8 magnitude. So far at least 16 people have died according to local reports, however rescuers are continuing to search for survivors.

The murder of two Senegalese men in Florence, by a right-wing extremist, produced solidarity instead of violent reaction.

The musicians of quake-stricken L'Aquila are working to remind the rest of Italy that the city still needs help.