Church in row with Naples over treasure worth more than crown jewels

The Catholic Church in Naples has become embroiled in an argument over treasure worth more than the crown jewels.

More than 2,000 people gathered to protest at the city's cathedral in an attempt to prevent the Church gaining control over the jewels of Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro (Saint Januarius), according to the BBC.

Concerns were raised after Italy's interior minister, Angelino Alfano, issued a decree reclassifying the treasure as religious and not secular. Demonstrators fear the change will mean the Deputation, which currently manages the treasure, will be passed to the Catholic Church.

Thousands gathered on Saturday waving white handkerchiefs and wearing t-shirts with pictures of the saint.
Paolo Jorio, director of the San Gennaro museum where the collection is kept, said: "We're protecting a centuries-old institution, we will not stand for interference from either the church or the government."

The jewels are considered one of the world's most valuable collections and were donated by kings and aristocrats after Naples endured a series of disasters in the 16^th century.

Those who survived built a chapel to their patron saint, St Januarius, in 1527 and was presided over by 12 lay citizens and the mayor. However Alfana has ruled the council must have religious influence because it is managing a religious building.

"We think Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe (Archbishop of Naples) has applied great pressure on Alfano, in order to extend his influence over one of the most well-known symbols of popular religion," said Jorio.

The council will appeal the decree.