In the small town of Reggio Calabria, Italy, stands a one-of-a-kind museum that showcases the dark world of the ‘ndrangheta mafia. But this is not just any ordinary museum, it is a cultural and educational hub that aims to fight against the influence of the mafia in southern Italy. The Museo della ‘ndrangheta, directed by anthropologist and theater director claudio La camera, is a powerful tool in the fight against organized crime in the region.
Born and raised in Reggio Calabria, claudio La camera has always been fascinated by the complex and secretive world of the ‘ndrangheta. As an anthropologist, he has extensively studied the culture and traditions of the mafia, and as a director, he has used theater as a means to shed light on this often overlooked issue. La camera‘s passion and determination to bring about change in his community led him to establish the Museo della ‘ndrangheta in 2016.
The museum is not your typical flashy attraction; in fact, it is intentionally low-key to avoid attracting unwanted attention from the mafia. However, this does not take away from the powerful message it conveys. The museum’s interior is dark and somber, with black walls and dim lighting, creating an atmosphere that reflects the sinister nature of the ‘ndrangheta. But amidst this darkness, there is also a glimmer of hope and strength, as the museum aims to educate and empower visitors to stand against the mafia.
One of the museum’s main focuses is on the use of false invoices, or “fatture false,” by the mafia to launder money. La camera, who has extensively studied this particular aspect of the ‘ndrangheta‘s operations, has curated a section of the museum dedicated to this topic. Through interactive exhibits and informative panels, visitors can learn about the different methods used by the mafia to hide their illegal activities behind seemingly legitimate businesses. This not only raises awareness but also encourages individuals and businesses to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
In addition to educating about the ‘ndrangheta‘s criminal activities, the museum also aims to showcase the history and traditions of the Calabrian people. This is important as it highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region, which is often overshadowed by the negative reputation brought on by the mafia. Through exhibitions of traditional costumes, crafts, and other artifacts, the museum promotes a sense of pride and appreciation for Calabrian culture.
One of the most impactful features of the Museo della ‘ndrangheta is its ability to engage and involve the local community. La camera has collaborated with local schools and organizations to organize workshops and events that promote anti-mafia education and awareness. The museum also offers guided tours for students and tourists, providing an opportunity for them to learn about the ‘ndrangheta and its impact on the region.
The success of the museum and its impact on the community is a testament to the dedication and vision of claudio La camera. By creating a space where people can openly discuss and learn about the mafia, he has broken the silence and fear that often surrounds this topic. His efforts have also gained recognition at a national level, as the Museo della ‘ndrangheta was recently awarded the prestigious European Museum of the Year Award.
The Museo della ‘ndrangheta is more than just a museum; it is a symbol of hope and courage. It stands as a reminder that individuals can make a difference in the fight against organized crime. Through the leadership of claudio La camera, this museum has become a beacon of light, shining a positive spotlight on a community that has long been plagued by the ‘ndrangheta. And as more people visit and learn about the museum’s mission, the impact of its message will only continue to grow and inspire others to join the fight against the mafia.
“Fighting the Mafia: Inside Reggio Cabria’s Unique Cultural Museum”
