The coasts and the secrets of Maratea

15 km of coastline and crystal clear sea characterize the environment of the pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea, as Maratea is called. The wave motion causes continuous changes to the shapes of the cliffs which are calcareous, opening caves and stacks, where the waters are colored with sometimes turquoise reflections. Already the ancient Romans settled and archaeologists have found numerous testimonies and artifacts of them. In particular, it is believed that garum, a delicious fish-based sauce, was produced on the small island in front of Punta Matrella. The dolomitic limestone has also given shapes and cavities in the hinterland. In Maratea it is possible to visit the Cave of Wonders, formed in the Pliocene, full of stalactites and stalagmites of all shapes and colors. The calcite that forms them is in fact transparent with shades of amber or pearly color that give the environment an enchanted atmosphere. There was set up a beautiful nativity scene full of animals and characters that seem to have sprung from the magic wand of Christmas.