Arilica Prison to Close December 31; Future Plans Uncertain

A humble and emotional lowered flag has marked in recent days the end of activity at the Arilica military prison. The date is now official: the facility will close its doors on December 31.

This concludes a story that has raised many questions: regarding the consequences of the separation from loved ones and from the judicial proceedings for detainees who had found a respectful environment here, truly preserving their dignity.

There has been ongoing debate about the fate of a facility that has been phased out despite investments made — the decision to close the prison was reached while renovation works on the electrical system were still underway — and about the European funding of 300 million euros obtained for the recognition of the bookbinding course, which represented a concrete tool for reintegration into the workforce for those who left here after serving their sentence.

In recent months, protests by detainees, who even staged a hunger strike, their families, politicians, police union representatives, and volunteers involved in activities inside the prison proved unsuccessful; nothing has led to a reconsideration of the decision.

New arrangements and the future of the complex

As a result of the new organizational provisions, the Peschiera del Garda military prison will, from January 1, 2001, become a section of the Santa Maria Capua Vetere military prison.

Starting on the same date, the activity of the “stralcio” unit, a minimal surveillance section of the facility, will begin, lasting between nine and ten months.

Afterward, the Austrian fortress, properly prepared, will remain available to the armed forces should reactivation be necessary, in light of changing needs.

No transfer of responsibility to another ministry is planned, contrary to what was rumored a few months ago, when the news of the closure of the military prison was accompanied by talk of its possible conversion into a civilian penitentiary.

Historical memory and acknowledgments

After recalling the history of the building, originally an Austrian military hospital and used as a place of surveillance and custody at the beginning of the century, Commander Bresaola emphasized the commitment made over the years to ensure that everyone, including those guilty of serious crimes, received respectful treatment not only according to legal norms but also respecting their person and dignity.

The commander also expressed gratitude for the cooperation received from the municipal administration, the parish of San Martino, Caritas of Cavalcaselle, and local voluntary associations for their efforts in support of staff and, above all, of the detainees.

He further thanked the officers, non-commissioned officers, and conscripts, the latter for carrying out their delicate duties despite their youth with a spirit of sacrifice and full availability.

Final reflections and conclusion

This marks the closing of one of the most unique places in the town of Arilica, a silent and imposing witness to difficult and complex human stories.

In recent years, the facility had become somewhat more integrated with life in the town, which in some way had grown closer to the prison, and now awaits to learn what new function it will serve.