The children, a boy aged nine and his six-year-old brother, have been found living on a ‘filthy farm’, still wearing nappies and only communicating through their own unusual language
Two young siblings have been found in devastating conditions on an isolated hillside farm in northern Italy, leaving locals and authorities horrified.
Police were appalled to find the nine-year-old boy and his six-year-old brother on the farm in Lauriano, near Turin, which they described as “filthy” and utterly isolated from society. Their shocking discovery was made when emergency services arrived to evacuate the area due to flood risks.
On arrival, officers encountered the reclusive family dwelling amid filth. The garden was strewn with rubbish, while decrepit furniture and abandoned trampolines decayed outside their dilapidated farmhouse.
Despite their age, the children were found to still be wearing nappies and communicating only in a rudimentary language of their own. It was found that they had never been registered with a school or seen by a doctor, living entirely off the radar of the outside world and authorities.
The children are originally from Germany, but relocated to Italy with their parents. Their father, a 54-year-old Dutch sculptor, is said to have chosen a life of seclusion for his family due to fears of infections, including COVID-19.
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He also alleged that they had access to laptops, musical instruments, and ski equipment and even enjoyed horse riding and museum visits. Yet, despite his claims of homeschooling them, the children were illiterate.
The local press has referred to them as the “ghost children” because they have never been officially recognised.
After finding them in the grim conditions, the children were taken from their parents following an order from the Turin Juvenile Court. The court declared: “There are facts that suggest that the minors are deprived of adequate assistance from their parents or relatives who are required to provide it.”
Their father expressed to Corriere Torino: “I love my children, I just wanted to protect them.” While the children’s 38-year-old Dutch mother, who is reportedly homeless, is said to have shown little concern for her offspring during their removal, reports NL Times.
Mayor Mara Baccolla commented: “It is a very delicate matter. These children can finally find a balance and have access to a life worthy of the name.”
She characterised the father as “very reserved” and noted his inability to speak Italian. The revelation of the children’s existence came as a shock to local residents.
While it was common knowledge that the farmhouse had new owners, it hadn’t seen visitors in years. The children are currently under state care, with foster arrangements being discussed.
The possibility of legal action against the parents remains uncertain.