Agrigento is Italy’s Capital of Culture 2025.
I
n 2023, Agrigento, a city located on the west coast of Sicily, was chosen as the Italian Capital of Culture for 2025. However, the city faces a significant challenge as it is still plagued by a strong mafia presence. In an effort to improve its reputation, the mayor has taken steps to remove all mafia-related souvenirs from local shops.
One of the oldest cities in Italy, Agrigento was built as a Greek colony in the sixth century. It is known for the Valley of Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was once a prominent Mediterranean region. The archeological museum Pietro Griffo showcases artifacts unearthed from the nearby temples, providing visitors with an in-depth understanding of Agrigento’s past. In addition to its historical attractions, tourists are drawn to Agrigento’s picturesque coastline and sandy beaches.
Despite its cultural heritage, Agrigento continues to be associated with the presence of the mafia, which is involved in illegal activities such as extortion and kidnapping. To combat this negative image, Mayor Francesco Miccichè has prohibited the sale of mafia-related merchandise in the city. The police are authorized to inspect shops and penalize those found selling such items.
In 2018, the Pope denounced the mafia and appealed to the young to resist them. Just this June, five people allegedly related to the mafia were arrested in the city.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Crime and Culture
The city aims to shift the focus away from its mafia reputation and highlight its cultural offerings. Agrigento is often associated with the mafia, and illegal activities may be glamorized by the availability of merchandise showcasing the underworld. A common example is the image of a Sicilian with a lupara (a sawn-off shotgun that you might have also seen in the movie The Godfather).
Mayor Francesco Miccichè told the Italian press, “Considering that the sale of such products in the territory of Agrigento humiliates the local community, which has been committed to spreading the culture of legality for years, I order a ban on the sale of any type of object that praises, or refers in any way and form, to the mafia and organised crime.”
The police can now inspect shops in Agrigento and fine those who continue to sell mafia souvenirs. The fine amount is not known.
In preparation for its designation as the Capital of Culture in 2025, Agrigento has planned 44 projects that will explore humanity’s relationship with nature. One of the upcoming events is a concert at the Valley of the Temples featuring the Italian pop trio, Il Volo.
Drought Issues
Agrigento is the same city that was turning away tourists earlier this summer because of an acute shortage of water. Sicily declared a state of emergency in March caused by the worst drought in three decades. A major part of the island is at risk of desertification according to the Italian National Research Council.
Tourists are still flocking to Sicilian towns though. Hotels and B&Bs have installed water tanks while many are also buying water from private companies. Locals are also getting their water at soaring prices from unauthorized sellers. Reuters reported that the cost of an 8,000-liter truck of water has doubled from last year to Euros 100 ($111).
If you’re planning a White Lotus-themed holiday in Sicily, tourists visiting the region are advised to be mindful of these water shortages and heed local warnings.
Related: So ‘The White Lotus’ Brought You to Sicily This Summer … Now What?
Clarify it was founded in the 6th century BC not 6th century AD as implied in your statement.
That was my thought too. They should edit this article to say that.