Calabria and its main islands

As mentioned in our previous blog, Calabria is the tip of the boot, located between the Ionian and Tyrrhenian seas and neighboring Sicily.

But, did you know that in Calabria there are also two islands, both located along the Riviera dei Cedri on the Tyrrhenian coast?

The island of Dino 

The island of Dino is located along the south-western coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, opposite the town of Praia a Mare in Calabria.

In particular, , the island is situated in front of Capo dell'Arena in the south of the country.

The name perhaps derives from the fact that on the island stood a temple (aedina) dedicated to Venus.

It covers about 50 hectares with a maximum altitude of 328 feet.

On the northern side, in front of Capo dell'Arena, there is a small docking pier.

There are overhangs which are over 262 meters high and others quite steep.

At their base, both below and above sea level, erosions on limestone rocks have given rise to many caves.

These include that of the "Monaco" the "Sardines", the “Leone” and the “Grotta Azzurra”.

The island witnessed fights and battles, pirate raids, assaults and desperate defenses.

Muslim vessels stopped there on several occasions during their military expeditions in Italy.

In 1928 Dino island became the property of the Municipality of Praia a Mare.

Furthermore, in 1956, the island was leased for 99 years.

In 1962 it was sold for 50 million to Gianni Agnelli with the aim of developing the island from a tourist point of view.

And in fact, a rolling road with a development of 1,05 meters leads into the cottages located in the upper part of the island.

It connects the dock with the upper part of the island, where cottages have been built.

In 2022 the island has returned to public management.

If you want to visit the island, you can take a boat from Praia al Mare that docks on a small pier directly on the island. 

Cirella island

Cirella island is located on the north-western coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea in Calabria, opposite the village of Cirella.

It reaches a maximum height of about 131 meters.

The limestone rocks of the island, subjected to marine erosion, have given rise to many caves and creeks.

The flora is typical of the Mediterranean scrub, enriched by groves of euphorium and lemons.

On the top stand the ruins of a military fortification, called Torre dell'Isola di Cirella.

It was built in 1562 to prevent the assault of Turkish pirates on the town of Cirella.

Also, it is assumed that the sea around the island hides some archaeological finds due to findings of amphorae dating back to the Greek Roman period.

The seabed of the east side of the island is rich in marine vegetation. 

Also, there are specimens of Pinna nobilis, the largest bivalve in the Mediterranean.

In August 2007, two World War II bombs were found not far from the east coast of the island.

Unfortunately, there are no moorings on the island.

Once you arrive to the island, it is possible to climb up the cliff but it is not suitable for everyone.

However, it is suggested to rent a canoe to reach the island in a few minutes and do snorkeling around the coast.

If you are interested in knowing more about this two amazing islands of Calabria, don't hesitate to contact us. 

And remember: as we have a deep knowledge of the entire region, we can help you plan your dream vacation in Calabria.

Send us an email at info@madeincalabriaitaly.com.

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