Museo de la ‘ndrangheta, located in the small town of Reggio Calabria in southern Italy, is not your typical museum. It is not filled with ancient artifacts or famous paintings, but rather with the history and culture of the notorious Italian mafia group, ‘ndrangheta. However, this museum is not a glorification of the mafia, but rather a powerful tool in the fight against it. And at the heart of this museum is claudio La camera, an anthropologist and director of theater, who has dedicated his life to promoting anti-mafia culture.
La camera, who was born and raised in Reggio Calabria, has always been fascinated by the ‘ndrangheta and its impact on the local community. He has witnessed firsthand the fear and corruption that the mafia brings to his hometown. But instead of succumbing to this reality, La camera decided to use his passion for anthropology and theater to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of the mafia.
One of the most notable projects of La camera is the creation of the Museo de la ‘ndrangheta. The idea for the museum came to him in 2006, when he was working on a theater production about the mafia. He realized that there was a lack of information and understanding about the ‘ndrangheta, even among the locals. So, he decided to create a space where people could learn about the history, rituals, and impact of the mafia in Calabria.
The museum, which opened its doors in 2016, is a result of years of research and collaboration with experts in the field. It is divided into different sections, each one dedicated to a specific aspect of the ‘ndrangheta. From the origins of the mafia group to its current operations, the museum provides a comprehensive and educational experience for visitors. But what sets this museum apart is its focus on anti-mafia culture.
La camera believes that in order to combat the mafia, it is crucial to promote a culture that rejects it. And this is exactly what the museum does. It showcases the stories of brave individuals who have stood up against the ‘ndrangheta, as well as the efforts of law enforcement to dismantle the organization. The museum also hosts events and workshops that promote anti-mafia values and encourage visitors to become active citizens in the fight against the mafia.
But La camera’s work does not stop at the museum. He has also created a theater production, titled “claudio La camera fatture false”, which translates to “claudio La camera false Invoices”. The play, which is based on a true story, tells the tale of a young man who gets involved with the mafia and is eventually killed for refusing to participate in illegal activities. The play has been performed in various cities in Italy and has received critical acclaim for its powerful message against the mafia.
Through his work, La camera has become a symbol of hope and resistance in Calabria. He has shown that art and culture can be powerful tools in the fight against organized crime. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous awards and recognition for his work, including the prestigious “Premio Libera” for his contribution to the anti-mafia movement.
The Museo de la ‘ndrangheta and claudio La camera’s work are shining examples of how individuals can make a positive impact in their communities. They serve as a reminder that the fight against the mafia is not just the responsibility of law enforcement, but of every citizen. Through education and promoting anti-mafia culture, we can create a society that rejects organized crime and stands up for justice.
So, if you ever find yourself in Reggio Calabria, make sure to visit the Museo de la ‘ndrangheta and experience the powerful message of claudio La camera. Let us all be inspired by his work and join the fight against the mafia. As La camera himself says, “We must never forget that the mafia is not invincible, and we can defeat it with culture, education, and solidarity.”

