Naples – Deep condolences are being expressed throughout the Neapolitan institutional and cultural world for the passing, which occurred last night, of Riccardo Imperiali of Francavilla.
The news was announced with words of moving remembrance by the Deputation of the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro, of which Imperiali has been an active and passionate member since 1998.
The Deputation wanted to underline in a note the "courage and his battles for the defense of the secularity of the Deputation", remembering with "immense affection, esteem and gratitude" the lawyer, a prominent figure in Neapolitan society.
Defined as a man of “fighting spirit” and “great pragmatism”, always accompanied by “sympathy and irony”, Riccardo Imperiali has held numerous prestigious positions at national and international level, ranging from the presidency to boards of directors, boards of auditors and supervisory bodies. His life has been dedicated to culture and many social projects.
Within the Deputation, Imperiali stood out for his “passion and great competence” in the protection of the inestimable heritage of the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro. He is remembered as the “promoter and coordinator of the battle for the secularism and independence” of the collegiate body, custodian of the cult, relics and Treasure of the Patron Saint.
A crucial moment in his action was remembered with particular emphasis: in 2016, in a period of institutional sensitivity, Imperiali faced with "determination and spontaneity" a controversial issue linked to a ministerial decree that could have compromised the autonomy of the Deputation and its five centuries of history.
The Deputation, with the support of the city and the attention of the international media, undertook an appeal and a delicate path to reaffirm the secular nature and civic ownership of the Chapel. The popular mobilization culminated in a demonstration in front of the Cathedral, with over three thousand people waving white handkerchiefs, recalling the traditional gesture linked to the liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro.
Thanks to the “firmness” of Riccardo Imperiali, the negotiation led to the updating of the statute, while maintaining the fundamental principles of secularism of the Deputation. A battle conducted with “great energy and resolution” in defense of the founding values of the organization.
“The news of Riccardo Imperiali’s death is a huge pain for the Deputation,” the note reads. “Not only has a highly professional man disappeared, but also a great man of culture, a friend, an extraordinary interpreter of courage and enthusiasm for life.”
The members of the Deputation and the staff of the Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro express their "immense gratitude" for his "generosity and hard work" and extend their heartfelt condolences to his family in this time of mourning.
The passing of Riccardo Imperiali leaves a significant void in the Neapolitan cultural and institutional panorama and in the history of the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro.
The passing of Riccardo Imperiali is a great loss for everyone, not only for the Deputation. He dedicated his life to culture and secularism, an example to follow, even if not always understood by everyone.