Italy is a country in mourning tonight, after the death toll exacted by the recent earthquake soars to 278, with many people still unaccounted for.
The 6.2 magnitude quake hit central Italy almost three days ago, completely destroying some towns and hamlets in the area.
There will be a state funeral for around 40 of the victims tomorrow, held in the city of Ascoli Piceno, near the town of Amatrice, which was levelled in the event.
A day of national mourning has also been announced.