The Costa Concordia as seen from space

On 13th January 2012, at 7pm local time, the cruise ship left the Italian port of Civitavecchia, carrying 4,000 passengers and crew.

At 9.30pm, two and a half hours later, it hit a rocky outcrop as it sailed past the island of Giglio. 40 minutes later, the abandon ship signal was given.

At least 11 people died and 24 are missing.

Captain Francesco Schettino, who allegedly abandoned the ship, has been dubbed "the most hated man in Italy."

The following image was taken on 17th January 2012.