Capo Rizzuto between Marine Protected Area and Coast

Capo Rizzuto between Marine Protected Area and Coastal Headlands

Capo Rizzuto combines insights into the marine world with a varied coastal landscape. The Gunny wreck sank in 1962 in the shallows of Capo Rizzuto and now lies at a depth of 24 metres. You can view the seabed of the Capo Rizzuto Marine Protected Area from boats with transparent floors. This seabed can also be explored on the “Aquavision” glass-bottom boat. The destination therefore appeals to visitors who want to experience nature and the coast from more than just the shore.

Experience the Marine Protected Area at the CEAM Aquarium

The CEAM Aquarium is located in the Capo Rizzuto district, at Piazza del Santuario della Madonna Greca. It comprises 22 tanks with a total capacity of approximately 20,000 litres. The exhibition presents the flora and fauna of the Marine Protected Area and recreates its marine habitats. In the vicinity of Capo Rizzuto, the CEAM Aquarium is classified as a zoo.

For children, the CEAM Aquarium offers an educational workshop focusing on the biology and ecology of the sea. There is also a touch pool where visitors can touch marine creatures. This makes it possible to understand the focus of the Marine Protected Area through direct, illustrative experiences as well.

Pilgrimage and the Feast of Madonna Greca

Capo Rizzuto is also associated with religious traditions. From the Saturday after 19 March until the May festival, a walking pilgrimage from Isola to Capo Rizzuto takes place every Saturday. The Feast of Madonna Greca takes place on the Monday after the first Sunday in May. If you would like to plan your trip around cultural dates, these two events provide a clear timeframe for your planning.

Beaches and Bays Along the Coast

There are several beaches in the vicinity of Capo Rizzuto: Spiagge Rosse, Spiaggia di Capo Rizzuto and Spiaggia di Capopiccolo. Lido Stella Mattutina is also located in the area and is likewise a beach. The coastline is shaped by Capo Colonna, Capo Cimiti, Capo Rizzuto and Le Castella. These headlands project into the sea and enclose expansive bays with predominantly low sandy beaches. One exception is the predominantly straight stretch of coastline between Capo Cimiti and Capo Rizzuto.

Culture and History in the Surrounding Area

Several independent destinations in the vicinity of Capo Rizzuto provide cultural points of interest. The Museo Civico Demologico dell'Economia del Lavoro e della Storia, a museum, is located there. The Sito Archeologico Phrourion de Le Castella, an archaeological site, is also in the surrounding area. The Fortezza Aragonese is located there as a fortress.

When choosing a hotel in Capo Rizzuto, you can structure your stay around your preferred focus: the Marine Protected Area and its habitats, the CEAM Aquarium, beaches and bays, or pilgrimages, festivals and historical sites. The different themes allow you to plan your trip at your own pace between nature, the coast and culture.

For the broader travel overview: Isola Di Capo Rizzuto.