Gino Bartali was a famous cyclist who won the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. After Italy was occupied by Nazi Germany on September 8, 1943, Bartali was asked by Cardinal Della Costa of Florence to assist a clandestine effort that would help Jews escape capture and deportation. He was asked to be a courier of fake documents.
Gino hid the documents in his bicycle frame and delivered them to various destinations, including Assisi. He also sheltered the Goldenberg family in the basement of his home, risking his life and the lives of his family.
The story of Gino Bartali’s courageous actions is just one example of the many stories of so many individual Italians who made the choice to help Jews in danger. He was not indifferent and his actions made a difference. In addition to being a sports hero, Bartali was a true hero who saved many lives.
“Gino Bartali was risking his life all during the war.”