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 in 1989 on the initiative of the University of Catania and the municipality of Aci Castello, in response to damage caused by overfishing and pollution near the Etna coastline. It was one of the first marine reserves in Italy and was gradually reinforced with stronger regulations over the following years.
The basalt rocks rising from the sea take their name from the Cyclops of Greek myth, as legend says the giant Polyphemus threw them at Odysseus as he fled. Fishermen in the nearby village of Aci Trezza have lived alongside this myth for generations, and it still shapes how locals describe the place.
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.
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