La Maddalena, Island commune in Sardinia, Italy
La Maddalena is an island commune in northeastern Sardinia, spanning an archipelago of seven main islands and numerous smaller rock formations. The coastlines feature pink granite cliffs, while turquoise sea surrounds small coves and sandy beaches scattered between the islands.
The strategic position in the Strait of Bonifacio led to the establishment of a naval base by the Italian navy in 1887. Before that, the archipelago remained sparsely populated and served mainly as shelter for fishermen and shepherds.
Residents speak Maddalenino, a distinct dialect that combines Sardinian and Corsican influences, reflecting the close ties to the neighboring island of Corsica. In the main town's public squares, islanders gather in the late afternoon for conversations and leisurely walks along the narrow alleyways.
Regular ferry services operate between the main island and Palau on mainland Sardinia, with departures roughly every half hour during peak season. The crossing takes around 20 minutes and allows vehicles to be transported as well.
The archipelago includes Caprera island, where General Giuseppe Garibaldi spent his final years and his white residence now serves as a museum open to visitors. The freedom fighter withdrew here and devoted himself to farming, far from the political life of unified Italy.
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