Ep 2. Echoes

In Lore season 1 episode 2 titled "Echoes," viewers are taken on a journey through the history of the famous Italian asylum called Ospedale Psichiatrico di Volterra. The episode is narrated by show creator Aaron Mahnke and features interviews with historians, experts and family members of those who were once confined within the walls of the institution.

Set in Tuscany, Italy, the Ospedale Psichiatrico di Volterra was built in the early 1800s as a facility for the mentally ill. It was considered a state of the art facility and was meant to be a place of therapy and healing, away from the rest of society. However, as the years passed, it became overcrowded and underfunded. Patients were treated cruelly, chained to their beds, and even bricked up in their cells.

The episode takes us through the history of the asylum, recounting some of the more shocking and disturbing stories. We hear from a family member of a patient who passed away within the walls of the hospital. She speaks of her relative being taken away from their family and placed in the asylum, never to be seen again. We also hear from a woman who spent time in the institution as a child, when her mother was confined there for postpartum depression.

Despite some of the darker tales, "Echoes" also brings to light some of the more positive aspects of the hospital. Experts discuss some of the more forward-thinking therapies that were employed at the time, as well as some of the artistic endeavors that were undertaken by patients in an effort to cope with their conditions.

Visually, the episode is stunning. The cinematography captures the beautiful Tuscan landscape but also showcases the hauntingly beautiful architecture of the asylum. Archival footage and photographs are included, and the use of reenactments helps to bring some of the stories to life.

As with all episodes in the series, "Echoes" has a few spooky moments. One expert discusses the idea that some of the patients might have been possessed by demons, and there is a brief mention of occult practices being performed within the hospital. Mahnke's narration is masterful in building tension and creating an eerie atmosphere.

Ultimately, "Echoes" is a fascinating episode that sheds light on one of Italy's most infamous institutions. It explores the intersection of mental health, society, and history, and is a testament to the power of storytelling. The episode is well-researched and thought-provoking, and will leave viewers with a deeper understanding of the human experience.