Marine protected area of Capo Caccia - Isola Piana, Marine reserve in northwestern Sardinia, Italy.
Marine protected area of Capo Caccia - Isola Piana is a coastal reserve spanning over 26 square kilometers along northwestern Sardinia, defined by steep limestone cliffs that rise from the shore. The island of Isola Piana sits at its center, surrounded by clear waters and dotted with submerged caves that open into the rock face below the surface.
The site received official protection status in 2002 under Italy's environmental authorities to safeguard its marine habitats and archaeological resources. Thousands of years before this designation, early people inhabited this coastline and left traces in the caves, which today serve as windows into prehistoric human activity.
The area is home to underwater caves that have drawn people for thousands of years, and their ancient graffiti and artifacts tell stories of early visitors. Local communities today maintain a strong connection to these waters through traditional fishing practices and a deep respect for the marine environment.
Exploring and diving require permits, and different zones have separate rules to protect fragile ecosystems. It helps to check current restrictions before visiting and consider hiring a local guide depending on your planned activities.
One of Europe's largest submerged caverns, Grotta di Nereo, draws divers into its interconnected tunnels and chambers beneath the water. The cave is shaped by remarkable geology and reveals an hidden world that remains almost completely unknown to surface visitors.
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