Dino, Calabria, Mediterranean island near Praia a Mare, Italy
Dino is an island off the coast of Praia a Mare in Calabria, where limestone cliffs rise about 80 meters above the Tyrrhenian Sea. The rocky landmass covers roughly 50 hectares and is marked by numerous caves carved into its chalky walls.
The island played a strategic role in 1806 when the English fleet under Admiral Sidney Smith anchored here to oppose Napoleon's forces advancing through Calabria. This presence shows how important the location was in the broader European conflicts of that era.
The name Dino may come from the Italian word 'aedina' meaning temple, or from Greek 'dino' referring to storms and water vortexes. This etymology reflects how the islanders understood their relationship with this rocky place and its surrounding waters.
Guided boat tours depart regularly from Praia a Mare to explore the island's caves, where visitors can swim and dive. Wear sturdy shoes since the rocks are uneven and wet, and always check the weather conditions, as the sea can be rough on certain days.
The Grotta Gargiulo extends about 18 meters below sea level and forms a passage system that only experienced divers can explore. This underwater network makes the island a special destination for advanced cave divers.
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