Pope visits Land of Fires and mafia victims in Italy

What is the controversial ‘Land of Fires’ mentioned in the visit?

It is a territory of around 1,000 km² near Naples that received its nickname due to constant garbage fires. For decades, criminal groups dumped millions of tons of hazardous industrial waste there from the north of the country. These materials contaminated the soil and air, creating a serious public health crisis in an area that was previously known only for its strong agricultural production.

What is the main objective of the pontiff’s presence in Acerra?

The religious leader seeks to give visibility to the suffering of a population that feels abandoned and pressure the authorities for decontamination actions. The visit marks the anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si’, a Church document that defends care for nature and criticizes development models that destroy the environment and punish the poorest.

How does organized crime profit from this environmental disaster?

Mafia clans, such as the Camorra, operate a clandestine waste management scheme. They charge factories to dispose of industrial waste, but instead of treating it correctly — which is expensive and requires following strict laws — they simply bury the chemicals or burn them in the open. This generates immediate profit for crime, but leaves a legacy of disease and death for the local community.

What are the direct impacts on the health of local residents?

Scientific studies in the region indicate an incidence of cancerous tumors and malformations in babies well above the national average. Residents report frequent cases of children and young people becoming ill at an early age. Because of this, the local Church and volunteer associations offer free exams and psychological support to families who are often afraid to even make a medical diagnosis.

Who are the victims who will have a direct meeting with the Pope?

Leo XIV will meet with fathers and mothers who have lost children to cancer and with people fighting illnesses linked to pollution. One example is that of Angelo Venturato, who after losing his 25-year-old daughter to a rare tumor, created an association to transport patients free of charge. The meeting in the city’s cathedral symbolizes a gesture of spiritual comfort and support for the resistance of these citizens.