The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
O’Flaherty Society tour to Rome proves an outstanding success
MORE than 70 members, five days, three embassies, two colleges, and a host of visits to famous attractions. The Hugh O’Flaherty Society Rome Tour packed a lot in recently, and was worthy of marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Rome.
The society was set up in appreciation of the iconic Killarney Monsignor, who famously helped with the Rome Escape Line to save thousands of civilians and prisoners of war during World War II.
While the society is no stranger to touring, this visit was no less special.
Among the many locations on the schedule were the Abbey and War Cemetery of Montecassino; the Palace of Princess of Gesine Doria Pamphilj; the Irish, US, and British Embassies; a special visit to the Irish college; and the tour also included a St Peter’s Square audience with Pope Francis.
“The tour members were unanimous in their view that this was an incredibly successful tour. While the ‘first’ tour is always special, this was, beyond question, the best yet,” Chairperson Jerry O’Grady said. “It included a first-time visit to the historic and beautiful Vatican Gardens, where Hugh O’Flaherty and Major Sam Derry hid their Escape Line records in biscuit tins buried in flowerbeds.
“It also included a full-access visit to the now-derelict Chapel at Acqua Santa Golf Club, where Monsignor Hugh ministered to eastern European refugees for over 10 years after the war ended.”
Events to commemorate the liberation’s anniversary – June 4 – are in the pipeline for Killarney, with details to be made available closer to the date.