Tombolo della Giannella, Coastal sandbar in Orbetello, Italy.
The Tombolo della Giannella is a sandbar that connects Monte Argentario to the mouth of the Albegna River across a considerable stretch of land. The narrow formation is bordered by shallow waters on both sides and offers a broad sandy beach with different areas for visitors.
This landform developed about 4000 to 6000 years ago as river sediment from the Albegna flowed into the Tyrrhenian Sea and gradually built up over time. Later, during Spanish rule in the region, fortifications and structures were built here, indicating its strategic importance.
The name Giannella comes from a local family whose presence shaped this area over many generations. Residents and visitors use the beach primarily for swimming and leisure, while fishermen continue to work the shallow waters as they have for centuries.
The beach has multiple access points and many areas are free to use, while others offer commercial facilities and services. Those who want to explore on foot or by bike will find good pathways along the sandbar with various stopping points to rest.
Two artificial channels called Fibbia and Nassa cut through the sandbar to allow seawater to flow into the adjacent lagoon. These openings are the result of historical water management efforts that remain essential today for maintaining the lagoon ecosystem.
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