Why Naples and Ercolano Struggle with Cleanliness and Safety
Naples, Italy, left a lasting impression on me, but not in a positive way. Staying in the Old Quarter for a couple of days revealed the city's significant cleanliness and safety issues. Comparing it to Marseilles and my hometown of Vancouver, Naples stands out as a city that struggles with basic amenities and the quality of life for its inhabitants and visitors.
Overview of Naples's Cleanliness and Safety Issues
The Old Quarter of Naples is notorious for its dilapidated buildings, makeshift shelters, and overall dirtiness. The air reeks of urine, drug use, and urine-laden streets. The narrow, winding, and shadowy alleys make it particularly hazardous after dark, with encounters ranging from frightening to hostile. Similar issues persist in Ercolano, a city adjacent to the ancient ruins of Herculaneum, which I found to be in a state of disrepair and poor upkeep.
Homelessness and Graffiti
The Old Quarter of Naples, like its sister city Ercolano, suffers from severe homelessness problems. Wandering through the streets, one can spot individuals in various states of squalor, lacking basic sanitation and hygiene. Graffiti, a persistent issue in several Italian cities, is particularly rampant in these areas, covering buildings with messages and symbols that often convey a sense of alienation and despair.
Human Factors and Perception
One of the contributing factors to the poor state of Naples is the quality of its people. Interactions in shops and other public spaces can be a source of frustration. Shopkeepers often show a lack of patience, rolling their eyes, sighing, or speaking loudly and angrily. The transportation system, which could potentially offer an easier solution, is confusing and inefficient. Attempting to navigate through the various zones and find a reliable taxi can be a daunting task, especially for tourists unfamiliar with the language and local customs.
Travel Experience and Challenges
The travel experience in Naples can be fraught with challenges. Attempting to purchase medical supplies or groceries, which are necessary for a comfortable stay, can be almost impossible. The limited availability of these essential items, combined with the lack of understanding from locals, can create an uncomfortable and frustrating situation for visitors.
Comparison to Other Cities
Rome, which is also an ancient city, is often held up as a counterpoint to the idea that Naples is sealed off based on its age. Rome, despite its historical significance, has a more modern and well-maintained infrastructure, indicative of its overall quality of life. In contrast, Naples seems stuck in a time capsule, lacking the necessary improvements to modernize and improve living conditions.
Conclusion
While Naples and Ercolano may have historical allure, the constant state of filth, the exacerbating homeless population, and the rudeness of the majority of people make them unwelcoming and uninhabitable places. Despite the historical significance of sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum, a visit to the Old Quarter of Naples would not be a pleasurable or safe experience. For anyone looking for clean, inviting, and hospitable city amenities, Naples may need a significant overhaul before it can be considered a top tourist destination.