The Anti-Mafia Walking Tour

Experience overview

For decades the Mafia has demanded pizzo- or, protection money - from shops and businesses. Several years ago a grassroots civic movement called Addiopizzo - translated as Goodbye Protection Money - was formed to resist the extortion. The movement has exploded in recent years with several thousand shop owners and businesses who have said "No" to the pizzo. Your tour begins at Teatro Massimo, familiar from being used to film the last scene of the movie trilogy The Godfather. Walk through the historic center and hear your expert guide share the rise of the Mafia as well as how the modern anti-Mafia movement was formed. During the path, you might meet shop owners who have bravely said "No" to the pizzo and hear about the consumer campaign "Pago chi non paga" (I shop where they don't pay pizzo) that encourages customers to do business only with stores that rebel against the Mafia. The tour ends in the heart of Palermo old town center: we will give you our tips to continue your visit and to taste the best Sicilian specialties like, "pane con la milza" (sandwich stuffed with beef spleen and ricotta cheese), "arancine" (rice balls), "panelle" (chickpea fritters) and the famous Cannoli. This 3 hour cultural tour does not include food or beverages. Guests must be able to walk for 3 hours and may have to navigate steps. Those in wheelchairs must have a companion to assist. Creating change is entirely possible as this tour will prove to you! Book now for an informative and inspiring look at the anti-Mafia movement in Palermo.