Stories of Friendship - The Human Spirit in Wartime 1943-1945

Wartime memories and people’s histories are the crucial focus of Stories of Friendship - The Human Spirit in Wartime 1943-1945.

The total number of people involved in or affected by the Second World War is beyond calculation. This exhibition examines the life of ordinary people and soldiers in Puglia. Between 1943 and 1945 this region in southern Italy became centre stage to the events that led to the end of a bitter war.

A stunning collection of one hundred photographs from the archives of the Imperial War Museum provides a new insight into one of the most significant encounters between British soldiers and the Italian civilian population.

This free exhibition of previously unseen photographs offers the public a new perspective on the Second World War, detailing people’s stories and their humanity in difficult times.

Stories of Friendship testifies that even in war there is room for positive values. Brotherhood and solidarity are at the heart of the human soul regardless of nationality and status.

Organised by Accademia Apulia UK and curated by Tatiana Chierici, Stories of Friendship has been supported by the European Fund for Rural Areas, the Apulian World Council and Accademia Apulia UK.