Watch the video below to see LGBTQ+ Tour Guide Andrea unlock a piece of Naples’ queer history that you probably didn’t know.
Standing in front of a local street artist’s tribute to one of the oldest but also the most famous homosexual icons: Femminiello. The term Femminielli refers to population of people who occupy a third gender role in traditional Neapolitan culture. What may surprise you is that unlike many societies that view transgender and gender nonconforming individuals in a derogatory light, in Naples, the Femminielli were embraced. A talisman of good luck, they were considered a very good symbol of tolerance. This is incredible when you consider that in those centuries, many places around the world had criminalized homosexuality, but never in Naples.
The representation of Femminiello in the street art in Naples becomes even more amazing when you consider the presence of the Catholic church in Italy. In Naples there are more than 443 churches. But you know what? They have a Virgin Mary that is still protecting the homosexual history and queer representation that is still alive and well throughout the picturesque streets.
Looking for more queer history and ways to explore Italy’s LGBTQ+ art and culture? Visit UntoldHistoryTour.com to discover a new side of Italy that puts LGBTQ+ history and representation front and center. You’ll experience guided tours with knowledgeable LGBTQ+ guides like Andrea who add a personal narrative you can’t find anywhere else.
