Following my recent trip to one of the most distinctive Italian cities, Naples captured my heart with its vibrant neighbourhoods, stunning views, cheap prices and of course its renowned pizza. Sadly, it is often labelled with the ideas of crime, the mafia, and even the murder capital of Europe. However, I think this reputation has been grossly exaggerated through the media and experiencing the city first-hand this easter has flipped my pre-conceptions.
Upon leaving Naples airport I was immediately approached by a rather sketchy taxi driver who attempted to scam me having only been in the country for less than half an hour. At this moment I thought my trip was going to be filled with swindlers and crime, and I feared the worst. Despite this, I’m glad to say this was my only dodgy encounter and I was able to see Naples as the beautiful, historical Mediterranean city it really is.
Naples is only ranked the 4th most dangerous city in Italy, behind both Rome and Milan and is 66th on the Numbeo city criminality index, where a significant number of American cities outrank it. So, what is the big, terrifying thing that prevents people from travelling to Naples? I think it boils down to two things: petty crime and the mafia.
Naples’ reputation has been scarred by organised crime, and the sheer mention of the city is synonymous with the Mafia. It is undeniable that the mafia has a powerful grip on the city. The Camorra (one of the oldest and largest mafia) operates in the city and is very prevalent in local business affairs. In fact, the Camorra is so embedded into Naples that the locals call it ‘la Sistema’ with resignation and pride. It offers them work, lends money and even suppresses street crime. The Camorra, however, have no interest in a tourist’s expensive camera. Instead, they act behind the scenes and deal with much more important matters such as loan sharking, and drugs. There are some areas that are particularly monitored by the Mafia. For example, Scampia ranked as Europe’s most dangerous neighbourhood and used as the setting for the film ‘Gomorra’ is reputed as the largest retail drug store in Europe. But do not fear! Such areas are located so far away from the centre of the city, that it would be almost impossible to end up there by chance, and you certainly won’t walk into the midst of a gang turf war.
Like any other large European city, petty crime is the main issue that poses a threat to visitors to Naples. Bag snatchings are quite common as is pick-pocketing, and some criminals have been known to grab backpacks while speeding past on a Vespa. The solution for avoiding this is simply common sense! It is sensible not to walk down narrow dimly lit alleys, and to be mindful of your bag when walking. The Garibaldi station area can be inhabited by some intimidating beggars, and most of the city’s petty crimes happen here. If you’ve travelled elsewhere in Italy, you will notice that the area around the train station is often the sketchiest, and so the petty crimes in Naples are no different to any other Italian city.
Therefore, I think Naples’ reputation as a dangerous city under the violent rule of the Mafia is totally unmerited. In fact, it is full of the friendliest locals, beautiful beaches, idyllic islands, rich history, and of course the best pizza in the world. I cannot recommend giving it a visit enough.
