NAPLES – Forty years after his assassination, Giancarlo Siani is not just a memory, but a symbol. The Il Mattino journalist , killed by the Camorra on September 23, 1985, at just 26 years old, was commemorated in his hometown with a day of remembrance and testimony. At the Teatro Mercadante, in collaboration with Rai Documentari, the documentary film " Forty Years Without Giancarlo Siani" was presented . Through the voices of colleagues, investigators, and family members, it retraced the young reporter's work, his denunciations, and his civic passion.
A strong message also came from the institutions. President Sergio Mattarella recalled that "the murder of journalists is the murder of our freedoms," emphasizing that Siani's sacrifice remains a collective wound and, at the same time, a motivation to never give up. The same spirit inspired the ceremony at the ramps named after the journalist, just steps from where he fell under the Camorra's gunfire. Mayor Gaetano Manfredi , Prefect Michele di Bari, Siani's family members Paolo and Gianmario, and numerous citizens were present.
The day also provided an opportunity to engage young people. Toni Servillo spoke at a school the evening of the attack, while dozens of students wore T-shirts with the hashtag #iosonogiancarlo. "You're not born Siani, you become one," the actor said, "by choosing the path of truth every day." These words echoed those of institutional representatives, from Senate President Ignazio La Russa to Chamber Speaker Lorenzo Fontana, and Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi, who called him "a man who symbolizes a tireless fight against organized crime."
Siani's legacy doesn't end with his memory. His historic Olivetti M80, with which he wrote over 650 articles and investigations, will embark on a traveling train journey from San Giorgio a Cremano to the Rome Film Festival, meeting students, citizens, and readers throughout Italy. A typewriter that becomes a metaphor: the voice of a reporter that the Camorra failed to silence, and who continues to point the way to freedom and civic engagement.
Chronicles of Campania
Torre Annunziata, Palazzo Fienga, the last symbol of the Camorra has been demolished: the Gionta fortress will become a place of legality.
In Torre Annunziata today, not only is part of an old building being demolished, but one of the most cumbersome symbols of the city is being obliterated.
It's very important to remember Giancarlo Siani. His story is sad, but it's also an example of courage for many young people. It would be good if more people knew about his life and his work for the truth.