Who is The Refugee Children from War in Val D'Orcia, 1943-1944 and what is their importance?

The diaries open when a group of children arrive at La Foce, where they will take refuge from the bombing and fighting in their home cities. While the children are staying on her estate, the Marchesa makes ever effort to continue their education, entertain them, and distract them. Her first priority, however, is to preserve and sustain their lives.