Maradona mural still closed: controversy on social media, but reopening is a matter of days.

Naples – The date circled in red on the calendar was August 1st, the fiftieth anniversary of the name change of the Società Sportiva Calcio Napoli. The reopening of the famous square on Via Emanuele De Deo in the Spanish Quarter, home to the Diego Armando Maradona mural, was supposed to be the highlight of the celebrations.

The square, however, is still cordoned off, sparking a wave of controversy and protest videos posted online by residents and businesses in the area.

Construction is nearing completion: reopening expected by the end of the month

Despite the disappointment over the ribbon-cutting not being held, the construction site is now nearing completion. Barring further bureaucratic or technical obstacles, the area—closed since May for extensive renovations—will be returned to the city and tourists by the end of the month.

The work transformed the square (known as the Bodega de Dios) into a neighborhood facility for public use. While it remains privately owned, the space was granted to the City of Naples through an agreement that guarantees free access to all citizens throughout the day.

More services, new lighting, and an end to architectural barriers

The redevelopment project involved the complete elimination of architectural barriers with a new, uniform lava stone paving. The restyling included repairs to the perimeter walls, restoration of the historic gate, and the installation of new street furniture such as benches and planters.

Particular attention was paid to the lighting, which was completely overhauled to enhance and highlight the painting dedicated to the Pibe de Oro, even at night. Two 30-square-meter mobile kiosks protected by shade pergolas will also be available in the area: one for the sale of merchandise and the other for takeaway packaged drinks.

Private management at zero cost for the Municipality

The chosen management formula for the open space focuses on financial sustainability. All costs related to cleaning, maintenance, and ordinary and extraordinary maintenance, as well as utility costs, will be borne entirely by the private proponents, without impacting Palazzo San Giacomo's coffers.

The space will function as a fully-fledged public park. Once the final details are completed, Municipality 2 will be responsible for ensuring compliance with the agreed-upon agreements and collaborating on the planning of the social and cultural initiatives that will enliven the square.