Today, Le Vele - the Sails - of Scampia is considered as a symbol of Camorra and degradation. What has happened there in the past has lead to a stigmatisation of Naples.

Originally composed of seven buildings, Le Vele - the Sails - is a housing project designed by Franz di Salvo that follows the Unité d'habitation of Le Corbusier. They were built between 1962 and 1975 in Scampia, a suburb in the north of Naples, as a response to an acute housing shortages. 

However, there are many differences between how Le Vele were designed to how they were built. The original plan included green areas, school centres, service areas, churches and common spaces, but everything was cancelled. The blocks were built very close to each other so there was no natural light coming in. Plus, the apartments were allocated too early, lacking electricity, gas or toilets. 

After the 1980 earthquake, many families were left displaced and they occupied any available housing that was left in the buildings. So, the already degraded dwellings became overcrowded squats. La Monica, a young boss, took advantage of the crisis and the architectural features of Le Vele and turned the space into a strategic point. As Roberto Saviano writes in his book 'Gomorrah', since the Camorra took root there, the complex soon became the largest drug-dealing site in Europe making Naples a gang war zone.  

The area became one of the most dangerous slums in Europe. This highlights how unsustainable policies can lead to further destabilization and poverty. To avoid similar situations in other cities and promote sustainable development, governments should invest in comprehensive planning processes that involve all stakeholders (including local residents) from the start of any project. This allows for better understanding of local needs and resources while ensuring adequate consultation with citizens who may be affected by decisions made regarding development. Additionally, governments should prioritize quality control mechanisms to ensure that projects are built in line with approved plans and standards.

Of these seven buildings, four have been demolished, two will be demolished in the next few years and one of them will be regenerated. These pictures were taken in 2019.