The academic, institutional, and business communities gathered today at the Basilica of Santa Chiara to bid their final farewells to Luigi Nicolais, professor emeritus of the University of Naples Federico II and former minister in the Prodi government, who passed away yesterday at the age of 83. The funeral was attended by Anna Maria Bernini, Minister of University and Research, who described Nicolais as “an extraordinary scientist, a person of worth and values, a man who combined great competence and professionalism with extraordinary empathy, recognized by all.”
A Life Dedicated to Science and Service
Luigi Nicolais, born in 1941, was a prominent figure in Italian academia and politics. His career spanned decades, marked by significant contributions to scientific research and public service. He served as a minister in the Prodi government and was also the president of the National Research Council (CNR), Italy’s largest public research institution. His work at the University of Naples Federico II, where he held the title of professor emeritus, left an indelible mark on generations of students and researchers.
Don Virgilio Marone, from the Diocese of Nola, officiated the ceremony and highlighted Nicolais’s dedication to improving the quality of life through his intellect and cultural contributions. “Gino was a special person,” said Marone. “He worked as a scientist, as a man of culture, as a serious professional to elevate the quality of life, to give his intelligence so that there would be true and authentic progress.”
Distinguished Guests and Heartfelt Tributes
The funeral saw a significant turnout of prominent figures from various sectors. Alongside Minister Bernini, attendees included Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi, the Rector of the Federico II University Matteo Lorito, and Pro-Rector Angela Zampella. Other notable personalities present were former Justice Minister and Benevento Mayor Clemente Mastella with his wife Sandra Leonardo, President of the Campania Regional Council Massimiliano Manfredi, and former Campania Regional Presidents Vincenzo De Luca and Antonio Bassolino. Nicolais had also served as a regional councilor alongside Bassolino.
Marone further emphasized Nicolais’s commitment beyond the academic world. “He was an internationally renowned scientist,” he added, “but he did not limit himself to the chapter of research, to remaining closed in studies, but lived daily life. For him, the centrality of the person was an inalienable value; he made everyone feel at ease; for him, the person existed. We knew the scientist and the scholar, and this is the most beautiful and strong message he leaves us.”
A Grandfather’s Enduring Legacy
Towards the end of the ceremony, Nicolais’s granddaughter, Lola, delivered a moving tribute. She spoke of her grandfather as “a very special man and an inspiration to many, thanks to his will and brilliant mind, but he also had strong empathy and a gigantic heart.” Lola underscored his ability to bring calm and serenity, stating, “We are here to celebrate a life lived to the fullest, a man who managed to bring calm and serenity. Today his light has not gone out, it has only changed: it is an enormous beacon of teachings to follow. I love you, grandpa, and he would be proud to see all these people here for him.”
Following Lola’s address, a message was read on behalf of the many students and pupils Nicolais had mentored throughout his distinguished career, further illustrating the profound impact he had on countless individuals.
The solemn ceremony concluded with a final farewell to a man remembered not only for his intellectual prowess and scientific achievements but also for his profound humanity and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others.
