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It was established in 2002 in the gulf of Pozzuoli and it has an extension of more than 170 hectares, with a coastal perimeter of 3.7 Km from the Southern area of Baia’s dock to the pier of Lido Augusto and with a depth of about 16 metres. It is formed by three areas with different modalities of protection: one is a complete-protection area in front of Punta Epitaffio; one is a general-protected zone, which includes the sea between the pier of Lido Augusto and Lido Montenuovo; and a partially protected area including the remaining sea trait inside the perimeter of the Marine Protected Area. Baia has always been known for the therapeutic properties of its thermal waters and became soon a stylish retreat for the Roman aristocracy, who lived in luxurious villas, which are a characteristic element of the coast. Bradyseism phenomena caused the disappearing of coastal area at the end of the fourth century A.D., because of this residences and thermal complexes went underwater. Nowadays, it is possible to observe the ruins of Villa dei Pisoni, the Herculea road which leads to the shores of Portus Iulius, the pilae which are impressing squared pillars coming from the bottom of the sea to form a dam breakwater to protect the port from the action of the waves. A huge variety of organisms typical of rock environments find shelter and food between ravines of walls and colonnades.

This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)