In Pictures: Italy players moved to tears during Auschwitz visit

07/06/2012 3:05:00 AM

The Azzurri visited the old concentration camp ahead of their opening game at Euro 2012, with many visibly affected by the tour around the site

Italy's Euro 2012 squad visited Auschwitz in Poland on Wednesday. The Azzurri were given a tour of the site, which serves as a memorial for those who died in the Holocaust during World War II.

They also had the chance to listen to the stories of some survivors, with several players unable to control their emotions during the tour.

"This is something that leaves you shocked," Giorgio Chiellini said during a press conference. "It is hard to find words to describe what we felt.

"I studied these things at school, but seeing them in real life is very different. It was very touching to hear the stories of the survivors.

"The visit is something that we will remember forever."

The Azzurri's visit of the concentration camp coincided with that of the Netherlands national team, which gave Mario Balotelli the chance to catch up with Manchester City team-mate Nigel de Jong.

Riccardo Montolivo was spotted misty-eyed during the visit, and he confessed afterwards to being overwhelmed by the experience.

"Coming here was a must for us," he told Rai Sport. "It is a moment of reflection and I feel devastated,"

Italy will kick off their Euro 2012 campaign against Spain on Sunday.

Italy's squad and players arrive at Auschwitz

De Rossi takes a photo just outside the camp

The Azzurri arrive at the concentration camp

Everyone has headphones for real-time translation

The players pay attention to the guide's explanation

Balotelli and Auschwitz in the background

Balotelli meets with City team-mate De Jong...

... and Sneijder, former Inter team-mate

Buffon was deeply moved by the experience

The Azzurri continue their tour across the camp

Cassano and FIGC official Albertini exchange a few words

Prandelli and his son Niccolo, a physio for the Azzurri

Pirlo reflects on the experience

Italy hear the testimonies of survivors

The Azzurri on the 'death tracks'

For Cassano and Balotelli, this time, no smiles

Everyone decided to record the moment

Marchisio also took some photos of the camp

Buffon walking alone, with his thoughts

Nocerino in tears: Auschwitz leaves a mark

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