The Vatican Pimpernel: The World War II Exploits of the Monsignor Who Saved Over 6,500 Lives

• Astounding story of Msgr. Hugh O'Flaherty
• His Vatican City escape operation
• How he saved over 6,500 Jewish people in WWII
• How he converted the Gestapo chief who ordered his execution
• Incredibly inspiring tale depicted in the film, The Scarlet and the Black

During the German occupation of Rome (1942–1944), Irish Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty led a secret escape network that saved over 6,500 Allied POWs, civilians, and Jews. Operating from the safety of Vatican City, he risked his life by disguising himself to carry out his mission, earning the nickname “the Pimpernel of the Vatican.”

This book presents the first new account of his story in decades, also exploring his unexpected post-war relationship with Herbert Kappler, the Gestapo chief who had ordered his execution but later sought him out for baptism.

For his bravery, O’Flaherty received numerous honors, including a Congressional Medal, and became the first Irishman appointed Notary of the Holy Office. His story was famously depicted in the 1983 film The Scarlet and the Black, starring Gregory Peck.