Sicily bans sale of mafia souvenirs

The island of Sicily, located at the tip of the Italian ‘boot’, is taking increasingly strict action against the sale of mafia souvenirs, in a bid to disassociate its image from criminal organisations.

Although the word “mafia” in English is associated with any criminal organization, it technically refers only to the Sicilian organization, also known as Cosa Nostra, according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, which came to power in the 19th century.^and century. Although the authorities have carried out several operations over time, including the arrest of hundreds of “mafiosi”, the mafia continues to operate on the island.

As authorities continue to crack down on Cosa Nostra, Sicily is trying to prevent its association with the criminal organization by banning the sale of mafia memorabilia. Souvenirs featuring Marlon Brando in his role as Don Corleone in The Godfather are a popular sight, along with refrigerator magnets, figurines and shot glasses of petty mafiosi in black hats and carrying shotguns.

Last year, the regional government banned ferries docking around the island from selling mafia souvenirs in their on-board gift shops, but the measure is now being enforced, with regional councillor in charge of transport and infrastructure Alessandro Aricò asking all airports to stop the sale of such items. Sicily’s three airports – Palermo, Catania and Trapani, as well as those on the tiny islands of Lampedusa and Pantelle – have all been ordered to ban the sale of the stereotypical trinkets.

“Let the sale of mafia-related items and souvenirs stop in the shops and commercial areas of Sicilian airports,” Aricò said, adding that the island must “maintain a dignified image, stripped of the usual negative stereotypes”, especially at access points such as airports.

In addition to the airports, the city of Agrigento is also implementing a similar ban in preparation for Italy’s 2025 Capital of Culture. Mayor Francesco Miccichè has not only banned mafia-related memorabilia, but has also ordered police to check souvenir shops and issue fines to those who fail to comply with the new regulations.

“Since the sale of such products in the territory of Agrigento humiliates the local community, which for years has been committed to spreading a culture of legality, I recommend a ban on the sale of any type of object that praises the mafia and organised crime or refers to the mafia in any way and form,” Miccichè told local press.

Agrigento is a popular tourist destination on the already sought-after island. Founded as a Greek colony in the 6^and The city dates back to the 19th century BC and is known for its UNESCO-listed archaeological area, where you can find ancient temples that UNESCO considers “one of the most extraordinary representations of Doric architecture in the world” and “among the most outstanding monuments of Greek art and culture”.