Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area

Located at the very end of the Sorrento Peninsula, the Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area represents one of the naturalistic and historical jewels of the Campania region. Established in 1997, this protected area extends over 1,500 hectares of marine surface and embraces about 40 km of coastline between the municipalities of Massa Lubrense and Positano. This territory is not only a natural paradise but also a place of great historical and cultural interest, which makes it an ideal destination for ecotourism.

Geographical Characteristics The Sorrento Peninsula, which hosts Punta Campanella, is the final part of the carbonate backbone of the Lattari Mountains. This ridge separates the Gulf of Naples from the Gulf of Salerno and shares its tectonic features with the nearby island of Capri, from which it is separated by the short stretch of sea called Bocca Piccola. The backbone of the peninsula is composed of limestone and dolomitic rocks that surface along the coast, creating a landscape characterized by imposing cliffs, promontories, and inlets.

Natural Heritage The marine protected area is a true treasure trove of biodiversity. The coasts of the Sorrento Peninsula are covered with Mediterranean scrub, which includes species such as myrtle, mastic, rosemary, and strawberry tree. The marine fauna is equally rich: among the rocky bottoms and the Posidonia oceanica meadows live numerous species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The underwater habitats are populated by sea urchins, starfish, red sea squirts, and seahorses, which find refuge among the fronds of the Posidonia. One of the most interesting spots for scuba diving is the Vervece rock, located about a thousand meters from the small port of Marina della Lobra. Here, at a depth of 12 meters, lies the statue of the Madonnina del Vervece, a pilgrimage destination for divers. Another place of great interest is the Vetara rock, where marine flora and fauna decorate the submerged walls right from the first few meters.

History and Culture The history of Punta Campanella is ancient and fascinating. The ancient Greeks knew it as the Athenaeum promontory and built a temple dedicated to Athena there, whose mythical foundation is attributed to Ulysses. This temple, known as the Athenaion, was later dedicated by the Romans to Minerva. The remains of the temple are still visible around the Saracen tower on the tip of the promontory. Furthermore, archaeological finds such as Oscan-language inscriptions, ceramic fragments, and coins testify to the presence of an active cult in the area until the Roman era. In the Middle Ages, the Tower of Minerva was built by Robert of Anjou in 1334 to defend the coast from Saracen attacks. The tower, renovated in 1566, was part of a system of lookout towers along the entire Sorrento Peninsula. The name "Punta Campanella" (Little Bell Point) probably derives from the bell that was rung when enemies were sighted.

Ecotourism: Current Status and Potential The Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area is an ideal location for ecotourism, thanks to its unique combination of natural beauty and historical richness. Ecotourism activities in the area include hiking along coastal paths, scuba diving, snorkeling, and boat trips to admire the coasts and sea caves. The Bay of Ieranto, located within the protected area, is a perfect example of how sustainable tourism can be achieved. The bay is accessible only on foot or by sea, which limits human impact and preserves the integrity of its ecosystem. Here, visitors can swim in crystal-clear waters, explore the sea caves, and admire the underwater flora and fauna in a context of absolute tranquility.

Challenges and Opportunities Despite its numerous potentials, ecotourism in Punta Campanella must face several challenges. Tourist pressure, especially in the summer months, can jeopardize natural habitats. To address this challenge, it is essential to implement sustainable management strategies that include continuous ecosystem monitoring, regulation of visitor numbers, and the promotion of responsible behavior among tourists. The opportunities, however, are immense. Environmental education and awareness-raising activities can play a crucial role in preserving the area. Furthermore, sustainable tourism can generate economic benefits for the local community, creating jobs and incentivizing the protection of natural and cultural heritage. The future of ecotourism in this area depends on the ability to reconcile environmental conservation with sustainable development, ensuring that this treasure remains intact for future generations.