Naples – In thirty years of activity, the National Park of Vesuvio has issued 2.500 demolition orders for illegal buildings. A figure that tells of a relentless fight against illegal building, but also of a cultural change: at least 50% of demolitions, in fact, were self-managed by the owners.
The president of the Park Authority, Raffaele De Luca, revealed this during a training course for journalists organized at the Palazzo Mediceo, a property confiscated from the Camorra and now a symbol of rebirth.
The numbers of the legal battle
2.500 ordinances issued from 1995 to today
Over 100 carried out with funds advanced by the Institution
50% car scrapping, a sign of growing environmental awareness
90% less building abuses in recent years
“Demolitions are happening, and the phenomenon has been drastically reduced,” explains De Luca. “But in protected areas and in the red zone, zero tolerance is needed.”
Security and controls with 62 cameras
To combat illegal landfills and fires, the Park has strengthened its surveillance systems:
62 cameras installed in strategic points
38 stations controlled by the Forestry Carabinieri
10 new stations coming with 2025 budget funds
«We collaborate with the mayors of the 13 municipalities of the Park – adds De Luca – The protection of Vesuvius passes through strict rules».
In addition to the repression of illegal building, the Authority focuses on:
Quality agriculture (DOC wines and Pomodorino del Piennolo DOP)
Responsible tourism (3.000 daily entrances to the crater, mostly foreigners)
1 equipped paths to distribute tourist flows
"Vesuvius is not just the crater - concludes De Luca - We must make all its beauty known, especially to young people. At sunset, here you can touch with your hand the magic of a landscape unique in the world".
Born on June 5, 1995, the Vesuvius Park celebrates 30 years with a clear mission:
Defending biodiversity
Promote sustainable development
Educate the new generations
"The more it is protected, the more the territory grows - is the final message - Because Vesuvius is not only the past: it is above all the future"
Article published on May 31, 2025 - 15:25 pm
