Stone Detaches from Plebiscito Colonade in Naples: Vandalism Suspected
Naples, March 13 – A significant block of stone has detached from the portico of the Basilica of San Francesco di Paola, located on the Rampe Paggeria side of Piazza del Plebiscito in Naples. The incident, which occurred yesterday, prompted an immediate response from the Carabinieri’s Mobile Radio Unit and the Fire Department, who secured the area. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
The event has raised concerns in one of Naples’ most frequented and symbolic locations. Preliminary technical analyses suggest that the detachment was not due to structural issues, with the State Property Agency (Agenzia del Demanio) indicating a possible act of vandalism.
State Property Agency: “Possible Act of Vandalism”
According to an official statement from the State Property Agency, which owns the portico, “preliminary investigations for the project had not revealed any criticalities that could lead to dangers of any kind.” Furthermore, assessments conducted after the collapse suggest that “the fall of the stone can be attributed to an act of vandalism.”
The Agency is currently preparing a technical report to be included with a formal complaint to be filed with the competent authorities. This incident comes ahead of a planned major restoration project for the colonnade.
Restoration Project Valued at Five Million Euros Underway
The collapse occurs as the State Property Agency is finalizing the executive design for the restoration of the Piazza del Plebiscito colonnade. Works are scheduled to commence in May and are expected to last approximately 18 months, encompassing the entire monumental portico.
The project involves a total investment of five million euros. Three million euros will come from the Ministry of Interior through the State Property Agency and the Fund for Religious Buildings. The remaining two million euros will be allocated for a new lighting system, funded by the Municipality.
Future of Shops and the Hypogeum
The revitalization plan for the portico extends beyond architectural restoration. A portion of the project focuses on commercial spaces, with nine currently unused premises to be designated for economic and craft activities. Presently, the area hosts only a few businesses, including a bar, the Parisio Archive, and the Lumiere artisan workshop.
Concurrently, the issue of the piazza’s Hypogeum remains unresolved. The Municipality of Naples aims to transform it into a museum, but this project is contingent on an exchange between the State Property Agency and Palazzo San Giacomo, which has yet to be finalized.
Urban Decay and Complex Management of the Piazza
The basilica’s portico currently displays evident signs of decay, with graffiti, offensive symbols, and signs of neglect marring one of the city’s most cherished spaces. The management of the piazza is complex: the ground belongs to the Municipality of Naples, while the portico is owned by the State Property Agency, and the shops are entrusted to the Fund for Religious Buildings.
This intricate administrative structure has often hindered redevelopment efforts. Meanwhile, some associations suggest alternative causes for the collapse. Antonio Pariante of the Portosalvo Committee highlighted that “there are many invasive roots on city buildings.” According to the committee, over time, these roots can damage structures and contribute to the deterioration of artifacts.
Source: https://www.stylo24.it/crollo-colonnato-piazza-plebiscito-napoli/
