Area marina protetta Isole Ciclopi, Marine protected area near Aci Trezza, Italy

The Area marina protetta Isole Ciclopi is a marine protected area off the coast of Aci Trezza, south of Catania in Sicily, where dark basalt rock formations rise directly from the sea. The protected zone runs between Capo Mulini to the south and Punta Aguzza to the north, with different protection levels assigned to distinct sections of the sea floor.

The reserve was established by ministerial decree on 9 November 2004, covering 623 hectares between Capo Mulini and Punta Aguzza in the municipality of Aci Castello. Its management is entrusted jointly to the University of Catania and the municipality of Aci Castello. The protected seabed lies on a basalt platform formed by ancient Etna lava flows and uplift of the sea floor.

The three rocks of the archipelago are named Lachea, Faraglione grande and Faraglione medio. According to the legend, Polyphemus, the cyclops blinded by Odysseus, hurled these stone giants into the sea in his rage. The reserve is managed jointly by the University of Catania and the municipality of Aci Castello.

The reserve is easily reached from the village of Aci Trezza, where boat tours, guided snorkeling, and diving trips depart from the small harbor. Access rules vary depending on the zone, so it is worth checking with the local management office before planning any water activity.

The basalt rocks that rise above the water are made of the same volcanic material as nearby Mount Etna and were shaped by the same geological forces. Below the surface, the lava formations continue and create a rough, uneven landscape of rock shelves and crevices that shelters a large number of marine animals.