Why tourists avoid Scampia, Naples mageored fights against the old reputation
Whenever you visit a big city abroad, it’s natural to have questions about which of its operations are safe to visit. Some places have reputations that precede them, and it’s up to us to investigate and find the truth. This is especially necessary in Naples, where stereotypes about danger and pollution are running on the Internet. Take the area north of Scampia, which gained notoriety as a desert for illegal activities thanks to the Book-TV series “Gomorrah.”
Place within this area the famous Le Vele (sails), a group of seven inexpensive houses built in the 1960s and named after their condition, for the wrong reasons – and as a result, some visitors may skip this area altogether. Although it is true that the original intentions of Scampia as a housing Utopia were fried shortly after completion, due to poor construction and maintenance – which allowed the Camorra (Neapolitan Mafia) to take over – Times are changing. In fact, campania, where Naples is located, is far from the most unsafe part of Italy.
Today, those large triangular cements, the first example of rutalAlist construction, have disappeared but disappeared. Four of the original seven were demolished several years ago due to their poor condition, and three of the remaining two were closed after they opened in 2024, resulting in deaths and injuries. The Vela that remains stands as a symbol of what was and will be transformed into a public space.
Read more: Rick steves’ places with the least ladies in Europe
Discover Scampia’s rebirth and rejuvenating powers
People on the street during the carnival parade in Scampia – @ Loney_Soul186 / Instagram
All this is great, but what does it mean if you want to visit Scampia on your next trip to Italy? Is It Safe? And what is the best way to see what it has to offer and really understand its history? The best option is to visit place by place, and thankfully, SCAMPIA travel tours has been providing this service since 2017. Cried Daniel Sanzone, who grew up in Scampia, who grew up in Stampia, who would show visitors the upper side of shows like “Gomorrah.”
The 90-minute journey starts at the Piscinola-Scampia Subway Subway Stop, which connects the area to Cestnal Naples. From there, Sanzone unfolds the legend of his neighborhood, allowing visitors to learn about the true spirit of Stampalia’s residents and those who have worked and made plans even when the area was facing problems. It includes a community center that organizes a traditional neighborhood festival every year, a football club that promotes good leisure with local youth sports, and ends with a tasting in Chikù. This unique restaurant for women combines Italian and Romani cuisine as a way to show the embrace between these two values.
Of course, Le Vule – or what is left of them – will be included again, and while this trip is decidedly not a “Gomorrah” trip, Sanzone uses his insight to explain the sensitive history of the neighborhood. Starting at € 30 per person, it is worth booking to learn more about SCAMPIA on these topics and see the amazing rebirth that the neighborhood thanks to Restart Scampia, which leads the way to new houses and sustainable public spaces for local residents.
How to best test Scampia
Street Art in Scampia Di Jorit – Vincenzo de Bernardo / Shutterstock
While you won’t find the major museums of Naples in Scampia, the less than 35-minute drive from the city is worth it if you want to see a serious, authentic picture. Of course, like any urban center, you’ll want to be aware of petty theft and protect yourself from cookies on your trip. And, as several people commented on RedDit, you’ll also want to respect the citizens, who are all too aware of their neighbors’ reputations and prefer not to be photographed.
When you get off the train, notice the two murals beautifully executed by Neopolitan Street Artist Arting Joriat. These large statues of political activist Angela Pasolini and pier Pasolini serve as symbols of the residents’ resilience and determination to improve their neighborhood. For a great espresso and homemade baked good, try caffeteria zeus, a local favorite known for its delicious Cornetti.
Note that while it is possible to get to Scampia and the Metro, the neighborhood itself is quite large. For example, walking from the subway station to Cafeteria ZEUS will take about 30 minutes. For this reason, it makes sense to consider renting a taxi or a private place to visit the neighborhood and make all your stops in this area ripe for renewal. Thanks to the efforts of the community, renovated houses, and the opening of the University, Scampia continues to build a new reputation, far from the stereotypes of “Gomorah.”
Ready to discover more hidden gems and expert travel tips? Subscribe to our free Newsletter and add us as your favorite search source for access to the world’s best-kept travel secrets.
Read the first article on the islands.
