The Possessed Child of Udine

In 1920, a young boy in Udine, Italy, began exhibiting signs that the local church interpreted as demonic possession. The case was investigated by clergy and documented through the exorcism process.

The Symptoms

The boy, whose name was protected, began speaking in languages he had never learned, including Latin and ancient Greek. He displayed violent reactions to blessed objects and holy water. Witnesses reported seeing him levitate during his episodes.

The Investigation

Local priests initially attempted standard prayers and blessings. When these failed to help, they requested permission for a formal exorcism. The bishop authorized the ritual after multiple clergy witnessed the phenomena.

The Exorcism

The exorcism lasted several days. During the ritual, the boy reportedly displayed superhuman strength and knowledge of events happening elsewhere. The demon, when addressed, identified itself by name and described how it had entered the child.

Resolution

The exorcism was eventually declared successful. The boy recovered and lived a normal life, reportedly with no memory of his ordeal. He later entered religious life.

Assessment

The case represents a typical early 20th century possession narrative from Catholic Italy, where such cases were relatively common. The documentation by multiple clergy provides a detailed account of the phenomena and treatment.