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Our favorite coffee on board is from Naples

For our boats, we selected an excellent Neapolitan coffee—specifically, coffee from the Lazzarelle cooperative. This coffee is distinguished not only by its adherence to the principles of the traditional Neapolitan artisan method but also by its inspirational origin. It was created in the Pozzuoli women’s prison to promote the social and labor inclusion of female inmates. This initiative offers a tangible opportunity for rehabilitation, as the women are involved in every step of the coffee processing cycle, from the beans to their presentation in the cooperative’s bistro located in downtown Naples. This is why it is our favorite coffee and why we also serve it at Girolibero headquarters.

A blend of Neapolitan tradition

Lazzarelle coffee follows the ancient Neapolitan tradition, with no additives and an intense flavor: it is slowly roasted, then air-cooled, ripened in silos and then ground. Finally, it is vacuum-packed in aluminum-free plastic material suitable for recycling. The blend we chose is the classic one with 50 percent Arabica and 50 percent robusta-a balance of sweetness, delicacy, body and strength. Inside are five different types of coffee: Santos the most classic Brazilian coffee, India Plantation, Uganda robusta screen 18 natural, Nicaragua Arabica, and Colombia Supremo.

An all-female project

It all began with Imma Carpiniello, who in 2010 laid the foundations for the Lazzarelle Cooperative, of which she is now president. A project promoted by a woman who is now an all-female team working inside the Pozzuoli Women’s Prison in Naples. Imma Carpiniello has been awarded the title of Civic Hero by the President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, for her daily commitment to serving others.

Made in Italy, or rather made in Pozzuoli prison

Since its creation, the Lazzarelle Cooperative has accompanied more than 70 female inmates on their path to rehabilitation and integration. These women, each with a unique but shared experience, have found employment within the cooperative. Through personal and professional development programs, they have acquired job skills and a greater awareness of their rights. An important step in regaining their autonomy and dignity.

Ethical and artisanal coffee, even at source

A good coffee also depends on the choice of beans. In the case of Lazzarelle, the beans come from the Shadhilly cooperative, which supports projects for small producers and complies with the Fair Trade criteria: guarantee of a fair price for the producers, absolute absence of child exploitation, respect for the environment and natural resources, and support for economic and social self-development.

The Lazzarelle bistro in Naples

It is located in the beautiful Prince of Naples Gallery, just opposite the National Archaeological Museum. Here the women of the cooperative can continue their experience of emancipation. It is a way to complete the circle of reintegration by coming into contact with the public. The Bistro offers Lazzarelle coffee, as well as dishes and recipes that also use products from other cooperatives working in prisons and social work in Italy. Is Naples too far away? There is also an online store!


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