In Sicily, Bypassing the Mafia Through ‘Pizzo-Free’ Travel

Travel Blog  •  Eva Holland  •  05.27.08 | 10:43 AM ET

imageThe Guardian’s Stephanie Rafanelli recently took a “pizzo-free” tour of Palermo—that is, she frequented only those businesses that refuse to pay protection money to the powerful local mafia. It’s a growing movement in Sicily, driven by young people who are tired of violence, intimidation and extortion. From Rafanelli’s compelling story: “Addiopizzo, literally Goodbye Pizzo, is an association that fights the mafia through ethical consumerism asking locals—and tourists—to support businesses that refuse to pay.” The group now has more than 300 members throughout Palermo, including restaurants and bars, B&Bs, markets and shops.

The mafia is so closely entwined with Sicily’s image and reputation that it may take some time to rebrand the island and convince tourists to buy into the pizzo-free message. But for the association members, it’s worth the effort. “If you bow your head to the mafia, it’s the first step in losing your dignity,” says one pizzeria owner interviewed for the story. Said another: “Many tourists come to Sicily in search of The Godfather. They eat cannoli, photograph old men in the street and think: Marlon Brando! Bang! Mafia! But the truth is not so romantic.”

Related on World Hum:
* New Palermo Shop Goes Mafia Free

Photo by scalleja via Flickr (Creative Commons)

Tags: Europe, Italy

Eva Holland is co-editor of World Hum. She is a former associate editor at Up Here and Up Here Business magazines, and a contributor to Vela. She's based in Canada's Yukon territory.


2 Comments for In Sicily, Bypassing the Mafia Through ‘Pizzo-Free’ Travel

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