Strombolicchio: The Legendary Great Rock of Stromboli

Between myths and beauty from Casa Erica’s terrace

From Casa Erica’s panoramic terrace, you can breathe in the sea breeze and lose yourself in the endless blue horizon.

And right there, where the sky meets the sea, stands Strombolicchio (Struongulicchiu in Sicilian): a volcanic rock, devoid of fresh water or vegetation, yet so fascinating that it captures the heart of anyone who gazes upon it.

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A mysterious and legendary place

Strombolicchio is the result of ancient volcanic activity, the remnant of an extinct crater that stands as a testament to a tumultuous past.

Its origin is wrapped in myth, in stories still passed down on warm summer days from grandparents to grandchildren.

According to one of the most fascinating legends of the island, Strombolicchio is the elder brother of Stromboli, hurled into the sea by the gods to quell its uncontrollable fury, destined to remain silent while the volcano continues to boil.

Another version of the oral tradition tells of a fire giant who once inhabited the island, defeated by Neptune, the god of the sea, who turned him into stone, condemning him to watch over Stromboli for eternity.

These narratives, though mythical, enrich the charm of the place, blending nature and tradition into a compelling story.

The geological history of Strombolicchio is just as fascinating as the legends surrounding it. Its origins date back about 200,000 years, marking the first evolutionary phase of Stromboli's entire volcanic complex.

The rock was originally 70 meters above sea level, but in the 1920s, construction work on the lighthouse required leveling its surface. By the end of the works, Strombolicchio’s height had been reduced to 56 meters, and a long staircase (over 200 steps) was built to connect the sea to the terrace where the lighthouse was to be erected. The lighthouse was finally activated in 1938 with the arrival of a specialized technician.

Today, the islet is uninhabited and hosts an automatic lighthouse managed by the Italian Navy, powered by solar energy.

A unique natural sanctuary

Although it may appear barren, Strombolicchio is a protected nature reserve, home to rare and endangered species that survive only in a few places in the world.

Among them:

• Aeolian Wall Lizard (Podarcis raffonei), one of Europe’s most endangered reptiles, found only on a few islets;
• Eleonora’s Falcon (Falco eleonorae), a majestic bird that nests here before migrating to Madagascar.

A breathtaking underwater world

Below the surface, Strombolicchio’s submarine cliffs plunge over 50 meters deep, creating a rich and colorful marine environment:

• Encrusting algae and marine worms;
• Brightly colored corals and sponges;
• Vibrant gorgonians decorating the seabed.

Because of its fragile ecosystem, Strombolicchio has been a protected area since 1991, but illegal landings still occur in summer, putting this delicate balance at risk. If you visit, please respect this natural wonder.

How to visit Strombolicchio

While landing is prohibited, you can still admire Strombolicchio up close by boat.

🚤 Boat tours depart daily from Stromboli, taking visitors around the islet.
🌊 Private boat rentals allow for a more personalized experience.
🤿 Snorkeling excursions offer a unique chance to explore its underwater beauty.

If you're planning a trip to Stromboli, make Casa Erica your home base!

Do you need more information for your holiday?
Do not hesitate to contact us!