Between the Cross and the Cupola The Double Life of Calogero Vizzini—Devout Catholic and Unchallenged Godfather

Immerse yourself in the life of Calogero Vizzini, the enigmatic figure who embodied the changing face of Sicily's criminal underworld during the first half of the twentieth century. From his modest beginnings in the small town of Villalba to his ascent as one of the most influential bosses of the Sicilian Mafia, Vizzini's story unfolds against a backdrop of political upheavals, wartime alliances, and enduring cultural traditions. This meticulously researched account explores how Don Calò leveraged local customs of respect and silence (omertà) to weave a network of power that connected rural communities, political elites, and even the Catholic Church. Through vivid historical context and in-depth biographical details, the book reveals the many facets of Vizzini's character—pious benefactor, shrewd mediator, and ruthless enforcer. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the cultural forces that shaped the Sicilian Mafia, as well as the political and social landscapes that allowed men like Vizzini to wield immense influence in an era of uncertainty. Far from a simple tale of crime, this is also a story of survival, loyalty, and the enduring pull of tradition. Prepare to discover the complex legacy of a boss who straddled the line between local folk hero and symbol of a world where honor and power could be as murky as the Sicilian twilight.