The origin of the legend of the Monaciello, one of Naples’ most iconic traditions

A city rich in history, culture and traditions, Naples is also the cradle of numerous legends and mythological figures that are intertwined with the daily life of its inhabitants.

One of the most fascinating and mysterious of these is that of Monaciello, the mischievous spirit that is said to haunt the homes of the Campania region’s capital.

The origins of the myth: a blend of history and folklore

The origins of the legend of the Monaciello are lost in the mists of time, fuelled by various hypotheses and folk tales. One of the most well-known versions, narrated by the Neapolitan journalist Matilde Serao, traces the birth of the Monaciello to the 15th century, during the reign of Alfonso V of Aragon.

According to this story, the Monaciello was a deformed child born of a clandestine relationship between Caterina Frezza, daughter of a rich merchant, and Stefano Mariconda, a humble apprentice. The child, dressed in a habit similar to that of the Dominican friars, was mocked and called ‘lu munaciello’. After his mysterious death, it is said that his spirit continued to wander the streets of Naples, bringing good or bad luck depending on the circumstances.

Another theory links the figure of Monaciello to the ‘pozzari’, the ancient people responsible for maintaining the cisterns and underground tunnels of Naples. These men, with their monk-like attire, often wandered through the houses of the old town, fuelling the popular belief in the presence of a mischievous sprite.

There are also those who believe that the Monaciello is a demon, a malignant entity that enjoys hiding objects or leaving coins to lure the living to him. This darker version of the legend contributes to making the Monaciello an ambiguous and mysterious figure.

Beliefs linked to the Monaciello

The Monaciello is often described as a child or a small man, dressed in a habit and with silver buckles on his shoes.

According to popular tradition, the Monaciello can leave coins and money hidden in houses, play little jokes on people that turn into winning lottery numbers, hide and break objects, or blow in the ears of those who are sleeping.

It is said that to appease the Monaciello you need to leave him some food, which he might turn into gold. However, you must never reveal his presence, or you will attract misfortune upon yourself.

Where the Monaciello is said to appear in Naples

Legend has it that the Monaciello still haunts some areas of Naples, such as: Sant’Eframo Vecchio, Secondigliano, Piazza Garibaldi and the historic centre. There is also a story of a house in Via dei Tribunali inhabited by a particularly bad-tempered Monaciello.

Castellammare di Stabia, a town in the province of Naples, is also linked to the legend of the Monaciello, so much so that a street bears his name.

The Monaciello and the Bella ‘Mbriana

La Bella ‘Mbriana is another spirit from Neapolitan folklore, often considered the antithesis of Monaciello. She is a benevolent figure, a bringer of well-being and health, who protects homes and families.

According to tradition, it is important to leave a chair free for Bella ’Mbriana, otherwise she might leave, taking your luck with her.

The Monaciello in popular culture

The figure of the Monaciello has also inspired numerous theatrical and cinematographic works, including the comedy ‘Questi fantasmi!’ by Eduardo De Filippo and the film ‘’O Re‘ by Luigi Magni. Neapolitan popular music has also dedicated songs to the Monaciello, such as the piece of the same name by the group E’ Zezi.

Article translated by Jasmina Towers

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Curiosities

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