Documentary on 1966 Florence Flood Premieres on Sky Arte

A new documentary titled 'Firenze ’66 – Dopo l’alluvione,' directed by Enrico Pacciani, will air on Sky Arte HD on Saturday, November 5, 2016. The film examines the catastrophic flood that struck Florence on November 4, 1966, when the Arno River burst its banks, inundating the historic center. Water levels reached six meters in the Santa Croce district, causing extensive damage to cultural heritage. Thousands of volunteers from around the world mobilized to rescue artworks and manuscripts. The documentary features archival footage and interviews with experts and witnesses, exploring how the disaster reshaped Florence's relationship with its past and present cultural production. It is co-produced by Alkermes Films and Sky Arte HD. A special screening will take place on Friday, November 4, at the Cinema Teatro della Compagnia in Florence, open to the public at 18:30, coinciding with the 50th anniversary commemorations officiated by Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The film highlights how restoration efforts, initially well-funded, have dwindled over time, leading to the suspension of many recovery initiatives.