With originally seven stepped blocks, the “Sails of Scampia” were one of the largest social housing projects in Italy. Given that most of the service facilities, such as stores and kindergartens were never realized, the complex swiftly fell into disrepair and became a social flashpoint. The complex has formed the backdrop for several mafia movies and documentaries.

As a consequence of the disastrous social and structural conditions in the complex, three buildings (F, G and H) were demolished between 1997 and 2003. Demolition work on three more buildings began in 2019. Of the original seven buildings, only one, Building B (Vela Celeste), is to remain standing and be renovated in the future. This is to be converted into the headquarters of the city administration of Naples. On the night of July 22nd to 23rd, a bridge between two parts of the building on the third floor collapsed in this very building. Two people died. The tragic accident underlines the need for renovation (last updated on November 5, 2024).