Naples, a city where life and death intertwine in an indissoluble embrace, renews its dialogue with the afterlife through the third edition of “Ua'nema: Celebration of the Other Living”. This event, organized by the Municipality of Naples, will be held from October 30 to November 3, and represents much more than a simple commemoration of the dead: it is a tribute to those "living" who, according to Neapolitan tradition, never truly abandon the world of the living.
“Ua'nema” stands out for its profound approach, which goes beyond the macabre spectacle of celebrations such as Halloween, offering a reflection rooted in Neapolitan culture and spirituality. The cult of the souls of Purgatory, anciently practiced in the undergrounds of the city, finds new life through this event, which invites us to rediscover historical places full of memory and to cultivate a feeling of care and respect for the deceased.
Francesca Amirante, the mayor's advisor for cultural heritage, explains: “At its third edition, Ua'nema confirms itself as an event dedicated to the 'other living'. It is an event that aims to make known or rediscover the places linked to the cult of the souls of Purgatory, such as the hypogeum of the Cristallini and the Basilica of San Pietro ad Aram”. These evocative spaces, in fact, will be transformed into theaters of reflection and meditation, where visitors will be able to reflect on the fragile border between life and death.
But “Ua'nema” is not just worship and spirituality. The program is rich and varied, ranging from art to cinema, passing through music. Among the prominent guests, the international singer Petra Hermanova and the multifaceted David Riondino will offer artistic performances of great intensity, while a film festival will pay homage to the masters of Italian horror such as Mario Bava and Dario Argento. Another unmissable moment will be the evocative New Orleans-style jazz funeral, performed by the Castellan Brass marching band, which will bring a vibrant mix of mourning and celebration to the streets of Naples.
Andrea Mazzucchi, the mayor's advisor for libraries and integrated cultural programming, underlines the symbolic importance of this initiative: “Ua'nema represents an important signal not only for cultural programming, but also because it invites us to reflect, in such a tragic moment for the Mediterranean, on the profound meaning of death and on respect for the deceased”.
Naples, with its peculiar relationship with eternity, is thus transformed into an immense space of collective memory. About 20 historical sites will be open to the public free of charge, including the Congregation of San Francesco d'Assisi, the Church of Santa Luciella ai Librai and the Arciconfraternita dei Bianchi dello Spirito Santo. In addition to guided tours, the program includes theatrical performances, concerts and cultural meetings. Reservations, already available on the website of the Municipality of Naples, will guarantee safe and organized access to the events.
In a city where the dead are never truly absent, but continue to live in memories, in the streets and in stories, “Ua'nema” represents an extraordinary opportunity to celebrate the mystery of existence with respect, depth and also with that lightness that only Naples can make harmonious.
Article published on 22 October 2024 - 16:53
Interesting initiative that enhances the culture and tradition of the city. It will surely be a unique experience for those who participate.