La Santa

La Santa is not a tourist destination or a geographical city, but rather a secret society within the 'Ndrangheta, a powerful criminal organization based in Calabria, Italy. The name likely derives from 'mamma santissima' (Most Holy Mother), referring to the Virgin Mary, who is considered the protector of the 'Ndrangheta. Established in the early 1970s by leaders like Girolamo Piromalli, this inner circle was created to maximize the power and invisibility of top bosses. It broke from traditional codes by allowing members to join Freemasonry and establish connections with state representatives, facilitating entry into public works and drug trafficking. The group faced opposition from traditionalists like Antonio Macrì and Domenico Tripodo, leading to violent conflicts during the First 'Ndrangheta War (1974-76). Ultimately, the 'Santa' structure solidified under new leadership, reflecting the deep-rooted influence of organized crime in the region's history. For travelers, it is crucial to understand that 'La Santa' refers to this clandestine hierarchy, not a place to visit. There are no hotels, airports, or tourist attractions associated with this term. Visitors should focus on actual Calabrian cities like Reggio Calabria or Gioia Tauro for accommodation and tourism, while being aware of the historical context of organized crime in the area.

🕐 Atlantic/Canary · 💱 EUR