Museo de la ‘ndrangheta, located in the small town of Reggio Calabria in southern Italy, is not your typical museum. It is not filled with ancient artifacts or famous paintings, but rather with the history and culture of the ‘ndrangheta, one of the most powerful and notorious mafia organizations in the world. However, this museum is not a celebration of the mafia, but rather a powerful tool in the fight against it. And at the heart of this museum is claudio La camera, an anthropologist and director of theater, who has dedicated his life to promoting anti-mafia culture.
La camera’s journey to becoming the director of Museo de la ‘ndrangheta began with his research on the ‘ndrangheta’s use of false invoices, or “fatture false”, to launder money. This research led him to become an expert on the inner workings of the mafia and its impact on the local community. But instead of just publishing his findings, La camera took a more proactive approach by using his knowledge to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of the mafia.
In 2006, La camera, along with a group of volunteers, opened the Museo de la ‘ndrangheta. The museum is not only a physical space, but also a cultural movement that aims to promote anti-mafia values and traditions. It is a place where visitors can learn about the history of the ‘ndrangheta, its criminal activities, and the devastating effects it has on society. But more importantly, it is a place where visitors can learn about the anti-mafia culture and how it is deeply rooted in the Calabrian community.
One of the most powerful exhibits in the museum is the “Wall of Remembrance”, which displays the names and faces of victims of the ‘ndrangheta. This serves as a reminder of the real human cost of the mafia’s actions. The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as a replica of a mafia hideout and a virtual reality experience that takes visitors on a journey through the ‘ndrangheta’s history. These exhibits not only educate visitors, but also engage them in a way that leaves a lasting impact.
But the museum is not just a place for tourists to visit. It also serves as a community center, hosting events and workshops that promote anti-mafia culture. La camera, with his background in theater, has also used the museum as a platform to produce plays that tackle the issue of the mafia. These plays are not only entertaining, but also thought-provoking and serve as a powerful tool in spreading the message of anti-mafia culture.
Thanks to La camera’s efforts, the museum has become a beacon of hope for the people of Calabria. It has become a symbol of resistance against the ‘ndrangheta and a place where people can come together to fight against it. The museum has also received recognition from the Italian government, with former Prime Minister Matteo Renzi calling it “a place of culture and memory, a place of resistance and hope”.
La camera’s dedication to promoting anti-mafia culture has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the prestigious “Premio Nazionale per la Cultura della Legalità” (National Award for the Culture of Legality). But for La camera, the real reward is seeing the impact that the museum has on the community. He believes that by educating people about the dangers of the mafia and promoting anti-mafia values, we can create a better and safer society for future generations.
In a world where the mafia still holds a strong grip on society, Museo de la ‘ndrangheta and claudio La camera are beacons of hope. They are proof that through education, awareness, and a strong sense of community, we can fight against the mafia and create a better future. So, if you ever find yourself in Reggio Calabria, make sure to visit the Museo de la ‘ndrangheta and experience the power of anti-mafia culture firsthand.
