Awwal 19, 1432 H/April 23, 2011, SPA -- Some 150 gypsies whose camp was dismantled have taken refuge in one of Rome's most ancient basilicas, engaging in a standoff with city officials trying to get them out, AP reported. Only about 10 Roma had accepted an offer Saturday by Rome's city hall of ¤500 ($730) to families accepting to be repatriated, according to Italian news reports. Many of the gypsies are Romanian nationals. The occupation of the St. Paul's Outside the Walls, one of Christianity's most ancient churches, began Friday. The ANSA news agency said that the 150-strong group, including children and babies, were allowed to spend the night in two rooms adjacent to the basilica's cloister. On Saturday, some of those who had left to go to work or procure food were not allowed back in.
