Riserva naturale integrale Isola di Lachea e Faraglioni dei Ciclopi, Nature reserve in Aci Castello, Italy.
The Riserva naturale integrale Isola di Lachea and dei Faraglioni dei Ciclopi is a nature reserve comprising one island and seven rocky formations jutting from the sea off Sicily's eastern coast, all shaped by volcanic activity. The protected area includes a biological station on the island that serves as both a research center and museum displaying local specimens.
The University of Catania received management rights to the island and adjacent rocks in 1896 from Senator Luigi Gravina, establishing the area for scientific research. This transfer marked the beginning of systematic studies about the natural environment and species living there.
Greek mythology links these rocky formations to the story of Polyphemus the Cyclops, who supposedly hurled boulders at Odysseus during their encounter. Visitors today see the dramatic shapes and understand how ancient tales shaped the names and meaning of this place.
The reserve is accessible by water, and the biological station on the island displays collections of local bird species, marine organisms, and geological samples for visitors to see. Check local conditions beforehand since weather and protection restrictions affect when access is possible.
The rocks and island are home to a rare lizard species called Podarcis siculus ciclopica that lives only within this small island group and nowhere else in the world. This species is a key reason the area has protected status.
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