Formigues Islands, Small archipelago off Costa Brava, Spain
The Formigues Islands are a rocky archipelago off Costa Brava between Palamós and Calella de Palafrugell, comprising four main islands and twelve reefs. The formations rise abruptly from the seabed and create a distinctive maritime landscape in the Mediterranean.
The islands were the site of a major naval battle in 1285 when Admiral Roger de Lluria's fleet defeated the forces of French King Philip III nearby. This clash established them as a significant point in Mediterranean maritime history.
The name Formigues comes from the Catalan word for ants, describing how these small rocky islands appear scattered in the Mediterranean. Locals and sailors have long seen them as defining landmarks of this coastal stretch.
Navigation around the islands requires attention to the lighthouse on Formiga Gran, which provides essential maritime signals for vessels in the area. Visitors should note weather and sea conditions, as these affect accessibility and safety on the water.
Beneath the water surface are numerous caves and crevices reaching depths of 45 meters (150 feet), hosting diverse marine vegetation. This hidden underwater world attracts divers and snorkelers, transforming the otherwise unremarkable islands into an interesting diving destination.
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