BESLAN, September 3 (RIA Novosti) - A bell tolled at the school, where hundreds of people were killed during a hostage crisis a year ago, at 13.05 Moscow time (9.05 GMT), the time of the first explosion that marked the end of the three-day hostage siege. Children released 331 white balloons into the air to symbolize the souls of the dead. Many of those who gathered at the school were wailing.
At least 5,000 people filled the courtyard outside the school, but only wailing broke silence.
People who lined up along the walls held candles and photographs of their dead relatives.
In the gymnasium, where terrorists had herded the hostages, people walked a circle, laying flowers and lighting candles near their relatives' photographs.
No speeches or statements were made during the commemorative ceremony in the courtyard.
Several women collapsed and were provided aid at the mobile medical unit near the school.
