Scandola Nature Reserve

Infobox World Heritage Site
WHS = Gulf of Porto: Calanche of Piana, Gulf of Girolata, Scandola Reserve


State Party = FRA
Type = Natural
Criteria = vii, viii, x
ID = 258
Region = Europe and North America
Year = 1983
Session = 7th
Link = http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/258

The Scandola Nature Reserve (19.19 km²: 9.19 km² land; 10 km² marine), established in December, 1975, is located on the French island Corsica, within Corsica Regional Park. The park and reserve has been recognized by the United Nations as a Natural World Heritage Site, and was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1983.

Location

The Scandola Reserve is situated on the central western coast of Corsica between Punta Muchillina and Punta Nera and includes Cape Girolata and Cape Porto.

Physical features

The reserve has two sectors, the Elpa Nera inlet and the peninsula of Scandola. The jagged and sheer cliffs contain many grottos and are flanked by numerous stacks and almost inaccessible islets and coves, such as Tuara. The coastline is also noted for its red cliffs, some 900 metres high, sand beaches, and headlands.

Climate

Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers.

Protection

In 1930, a law was passed prohibiting destruction or modification within Corsica Regional Park. Scandola Nature Reserve is strictly protected in order to return the area to its natural state.

References

* Bacar, H. "A survey of Existing and Potential Marine Parks and Reserves of the Mediterranean Region." 1977. IUCN/UNEP.

* Gryn-Ambroes, P. Preliminary Annotated Lists of Existing and Potential Mediterranean Protected Areas. 1980. UNEP/IUCN.

External links

* [http://www.unep-wcmc.org/index.html?http://sea.unep-wcmc.org/sites/wh/girolata.html~main UNEP-WCMC.org] - 'Scandola Nature Reserve & Capes Girolata and Porto', World Heritage Sites
* Pictures and description on http://www.wikisailing.com/Ilot_Palazzu