The gladiatorial arena returns to Naples: theater and history at the San Giovanni a Carbonara Complex.

Naples is rediscovering a dark and fascinating chapter in its history: the Carbonara gladiatorial arena, a site of violent combat between young Neapolitans until the late 14th century. This space, later supplanted by the construction of the churches of the San Giovanni a Carbonara complex, is brought back to life thanks to "Progetto Cuccagna," a theatrical performance taking place on August 20, 21, and 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Admission is free, but reservations are required.

The show, written by Gian Maria Cervo with Charis Pechlivanidis and Pablo Girolami, blends documentary theater and medieval myth. It draws inspiration from the legend that attributes the poet Virgil with the institution of gladiatorial games in Naples, featuring invulnerable and immortal fighters, and from Francesco Petrarca's tale of the tragic end of many young men in the Carbonara arenas. The play also explores the dynamics of power manipulation through "bread and circuses" throughout the centuries.

The project features internationally renowned artists: Gian Maria Cervo, a renowned Neapolitan playwright with experience in prestigious theaters; Charis Pechlivanidis, a Greek actor and director who collaborates with the National Theatre of Northern Greece; and Pablo Girolami, a young, award-winning Italian-Swiss choreographer. The production is curated by Teatro Stabile delle Arti Medioevali in collaboration with NoveTeatro, House of Ivona, Fondazione Napoli C'Entro, and the Progetto MUDD Museo Diocesano Diffuso, which combine artistic development with opportunities for young people.

"Progetto Cuccagna" promises a unique and immersive experience for spectators, as Cervo himself emphasizes, thanking the collaboration with the cultural and religious institutions that made the event possible. The show features a cast including Charis Pechlivanidis, Annalisa Arbolino, Eugenio Castaldo, Antonio Ciorfito, Enrico Liguori, Graziano Purgante, Giovanni Schiavo, and Raffaele Siciliano, with an installation curated by a multidisciplinary artistic team.

To participate, please book by email at ufficiostampaquartieridellarte@gmail.com. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in ancient Naples, amidst history, myth, and contemporary art, in a monumental setting rich in meaning.