A Napoli Café That Stands With Israel

Naples, a beautiful city in southern Italy, often sees loud protests against Israel, with Palestinian flags waving in the streets. But tucked away in one of its charming corners is a small coffee shop that quietly stands for something different, love and support for the Jewish people.

The café is run by 51-year-old Ciro, a man who has become well known among Jewish and Israeli visitors. Even though he isn’t Jewish, Ciro says he feels deeply connected to the Jewish people. As a child, he loved hearing stories from the Bible. As he grew up, he began learning Hebrew words and even traveled to Israel several times. “I feel like part of you,” he says with pride.

The entrance to his café, Caffe Delle Muse, has a yellow ribbon and a sign in Hebrew that reads “Brothers Here.” There's even a mezuzah on the doorpost, a small symbol many Jewish homes have.

But Ciro’s support isn’t just symbolic. When Israeli tourists come in, he greets them with warmth and sometimes even refuses to let them pay. “They need to feel there’s someone here who supports them,” he explains. A recent story in the Italian media described how Israelis were kicked out of a local restaurant after a political argument. Ciro says this is more proof of rising antisemitism and strengthens his commitment to stand with Israel.

Not everyone agrees with him, of course. Some customers try to argue. But Ciro calmly responds with facts, saying the Jewish people are often the first target of hate, and if extremists succeed, others will be next. “Christianity will be next,” he warns.

Among the Jewish community in Naples, Ciro is affectionately called “Israel.” He is close with the local rabbi and has been working toward converting to Judaism for years. “Hashem is always with me,” he says. “My love for Israel is part of who I am. I won’t stay silent in the face of hate.”