Lampione
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By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 21 January 2024
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The smallest of the three Pelagie Islands (Isole Pelagie), Lampione is located around 15 kilometres to the west of Lampedusa. The island is uninhabited and is part of a protected nature reserve: Riserva Naturale Orientate Isole di Linosa e Lampione. Lampione's total surface area is 4 hectares and to visit the island you need to take a private boat or organised tour from Lampedusa. The only building on the island is a lighthouse, built in 1935.
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Profile
Lampione is a small uninhabited island located in the Mediterranean Sea, part of the Pelagie Islands archipelago in the Sicily region of Italy. The island has a volcanic origin and is characterized by rocky cliffs and rugged terrain.
History
Throughout history, Lampione served primarily as a refuge for fishermen and sailors due to its remote location and lack of freshwater sources. Today, Lampione remains a protected nature reserve, making it an untouched haven for wildlife and an off-the-beaten-path destination for adventurous travelers.
Visitor information
- Overview: Lampione is a true hidden gem for those seeking an unspoiled natural experience away from the tourist crowds. As an uninhabited island, it offers a unique opportunity to witness the raw beauty of Sicilian nature in its most untouched form.
- Pristine Landscapes: Lampione's volcanic origins have sculpted the island into a stunning landscape of rocky cliffs and sea caves. The absence of human development has allowed the flora and fauna to thrive undisturbed, creating a sanctuary for wildlife.
- Rich Marine Life: The crystal-clear waters surrounding Lampione are a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. The area is known for its abundant marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and other underwater creatures.
- Bird Watching: Lampione is an essential breeding site for several seabird species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Visitors may spot Cory's shearwaters, Mediterranean storm petrels, and other seabirds soaring above the island's cliffs.
- No Human Presence: Being uninhabited, there are no tourist facilities or accommodations on Lampione. Visitors are not allowed to stay overnight, and access to the island is limited for preservation purposes.
- Location: Lampione is situated in the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 8 kilometers south of the island of Lampedusa, which is part of the Pelagie Islands archipelago in Sicily, Italy.
- Getting There: Lampione is not a typical tourist destination, and organized tours or regular ferries do not operate to the island. Visiting Lampione requires special permission from the authorities and is generally limited to research purposes and guided tours organized by conservation organizations.
- Protected Area: Lampione is part of the Riserva Naturale Orientata Isola di Lampedusa e Linosa (Natural Reserve of Lampedusa and Linosa), managed by the Italian Ministry of the Environment. The island is a designated nature reserve, aiming to protect its unique ecosystem and marine biodiversity.
- Guided Tours: Occasionally, scientific expeditions or guided tours may be organized to explore Lampione's natural beauty and observe the island's flora and fauna. These tours are typically led by experts who provide valuable insights into the island's ecology.
- Conservation Efforts: As a protected area, visitors are expected to respect the island's fragile ecosystem and wildlife. Strict regulations are in place to ensure the preservation of this pristine environment.
Isola Lampione
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Province: Agrigento
Region: Sicily Population: 0 Size: 200 metres by 180 metres Highlights: nature reserve Recommended accommodation: Hotel O'scià (Lampedusa) |
