In Agrigento, you’ll want to keep your friends close, but your The Godfather merch closer. The city on the southern coast of Sicily that is known for its ancient Greek temples is focused on improving its image in anticipation of being named Italy’s “Capital of Culture” in 2025, and mayor Francesco Miccichè is wasting no time trying to shake the city’s connection to organized crime in his latest move.
Given that Sicily is the birthplace of the mafia and Agrigento is under a two-hour drive from the birthplace of Vito Corleone in The Godfather, it is common to find merchandise inspired by the film being sold on the streets and in local shops. However, this won’t be the case for long as Miccichè has announced a ban on the sale of mafia-related souvenirs.
“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 organized crime,” said the mayor to the Italian press.
Now, police will be permitted to inspect shops for these items to ensure that local vendors comply with this demand, which is receiving mixed reactions from those in the know. The city prefers to call attention to its incredible ancient ruins, particularly the Valley of the Temples. As one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Sicily, the UNESCO World Heritage Site contains an impressive complex of temples, tombs, and cemeteries that date back to 500 BC.
While public opinion is still up in the air and the exact penalty for violating the ban is not 100% clear, Agrigento seems committed to altering its perception among tourists and citizens alike.
