The monastery, located in La Valletta Brianza, a commune near Milan, suffered extensive damage in the blaze, which authorities believe was caused by a short circuit in one of the cells occupied by the Ambrosian Romite monks.

Regional councillor Massimo Sertori confirmed the incident in a Facebook post, describing the fire as “of huge proportions.” He noted that the site holds religious significance as the place where recently canonised Saint Carlo Acutis received his First Communion.

Of the 21 nuns evacuated, 19 have been relocated to another religious facility in Ponte Lambro, while two are being treated in a hospital near Erba. Details of their injuries have not been disclosed.

Sertori said the fire caused serious structural damage, destroying parts of the monastery that housed valuable paintings. Images shared on social media showed large sections of the historic building charred and partially collapsed.

The religious structure was opened in 1628.