Italy's former mafia prison attracts tourists

The Italian island of Asinara, lying off the northwestern coast of Sardinia, was until 1997 a colony for especially dangerous criminals, which contained the most famous mafiosi. The local nature is very picturesque, and Italians expressed displeasure that law-abiding citizens are not allowed access there. As a result of numerous demands, the prison was abolished and the island was declared a national reserve.

Since 1999, tourists can visit the island as part of excursion groups. Participants of the walks will inspect the buildings where the famous mafiosi were kept, enjoy the picturesque nature and swim - three beaches are open for visitors.

The colony on Asinar appeared in 1885 along with the infirmary. At the same time, farmers and fishermen living on the island were forced to move to neighboring Sardinia - they settled on Cape Stintino, where they founded the village of the same name. Now there are hotels and some of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, there is a museum of tuna.

Fans of fishing and connoisseurs of sea gastronomy come here for rest. Of the local specialists, local fish soup and botargo (dried tuna caviar) are especially known. The most famous events that attract tourists to Stintino are the Vela Latina sailing regatta, held in August, and the tuna festival, which is held in September.

In Stintino is the famous beach La Peloza with white sand, a breathtaking view of the island of Asinara and the Aragonese tower of the XVI century. Nearby are the beaches of Saline, named after the nearby salt mines, Pazzone and Ezzi Manni.

There are not many hotels in Stintino. One of them, the four-star Sala Rosa Club, offers accommodation in cottages, and also has a certificate "Russian key", indicating that the hotel is focused on Russian tourists. The cost of living is from 204 euros per night with double accommodation, according to travel.ru.

Source: Travel.ru

Useful information on the website: Russian-speaking guides in Italy