Cape Miseno, Protected promontory in Bacoli, Italy
Cape Miseno is a promontory on the Campanian coast that extends into the Tyrrhenian Sea, marking the northwestern boundary of the Gulf of Naples and the Bay of Pozzuoli. The landscape combines rocky coastline with protected coastal lagoons and diverse natural habitats.
The Romans established a major naval base here in 33 BC, using the cape's natural protection for military operations at sea. This port became the primary western naval base of the Roman Empire.
The name comes from Misenus, a figure in Virgil's Aeneid who had a musical contest with Triton near these waters. The story remains woven into the place's identity today.
The site is accessible via marked hiking trails that let visitors explore the protected landscape. It's best to stay on designated paths to respect the fragile habitats of the species living here.
The protected lagoons here are home to three species of horseshoe bats: Mediterranean, Greater, and Lesser variants. These bats reveal the surprising diversity of wildlife in this coastal area.
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