Porto Turistico di Manfredonia, also known locally as Porto di Manfredonia, is a picturesque and bustling harbor located in the enchanting region of Puglia, Italy. This ancient and important port structure has served as a strategic point of entry and a vibrant center of maritime activity for centuries. Nestled in the stunning Gulf of Manfredonia, it offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers and boating enthusiasts alike.
The history of Porto Turistico di Manfredonia is as rich and varied as the azure waters that lap against its shores. The earliest known civilization to utilize this strategic harbor was the Dauni, an ancient Italic tribe that engaged in extensive trade with other Mediterranean cultures. Following the Dauni, the Greeks and then the Romans recognized the port's significance, leaving behind remnants of Roman structures now submerged beneath the sea.
During the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies, Porto Turistico di Manfredonia gained even greater prominence. In the mid-19th century, there were ambitious plans to connect the port with Naples via a railway for the shipment of goods to the East. Although only the section connecting Manfredonia to Foggia was eventually completed, the port continued to thrive as a hub of commercial and fishing activities.
Today, Porto Turistico di Manfredonia is a dynamic harbor comprising several key structures. The Molo di Ponente, a 900-meter-long and 50-meter-wide pier, is dedicated to commercial traffic, fishing vessels, and service ships. It is also home to several buildings serving the armed forces, including the Guardia di Finanza and the Port Authority, as well as a distinctive red lighthouse.
The Molo di Levante, slightly longer at 925 meters, is primarily reserved for fishing boats for the first 650 meters, with the remaining section functioning as a breakwater. This pier features a white light lighthouse and various commercial establishments, such as bars and fish markets, along with storage facilities for fishing equipment.
Another notable structure is the trapezoidal pier, 38 meters long and 8 meters wide at its head, situated about 120 meters from the root of the Molo di Ponente. This pier accommodates passenger ships serving the Tremiti Islands and fishing boats. Additionally, it houses a restaurant and other port-related services.
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Adjacent to the Molo di Ponente lies the Marina del Gargano, a state-of-the-art marina within Porto Turistico di Manfredonia. This modern facility boasts 747 berths for boats ranging from 8 to 60 meters in length, with depths varying from 2.5 to 6 meters. The marina is equipped with all essential services, including a shipyard with a 130-ton travel lift, fuel bunkering, pump-out facilities, and secure mooring areas.
The Marina del Gargano also offers a range of amenities for visitors, such as green spaces, a yacht club, a nautical base, a swimming pool, and a solarium. Various commercial services, including restaurants, bars, a pharmacy, and an ATM, are available to cater to the needs of boaters and tourists. For added convenience, there are bike and golf cart rentals, public parking, and free Wi-Fi.
One of the marina's highlights is the elevated panoramic walkway on the lee breakwater, which provides breathtaking views of the harbor and the surrounding coastline. The Marina del Gargano, managed by the English company An MDL Mediterranean Network Marina, was inaugurated on July 18, 2013, and has since become a popular destination for sailors and tourists.
In addition to Porto Turistico di Manfredonia, the town of Manfredonia is home to several other significant ports. The Porto Alti Fondali, or industrial port, is located approximately 1.8 kilometers northeast of the old port's entrance. Constructed in the 1970s to support industrial and commercial activities, it was once considered one of the finest infrastructures of its kind in Europe. Although it has fallen into a state of semi-abandonment, it remains a testament to the region's industrial heritage.
Another notable facility is the Marina Cala delle Sirene, a small harbor dedicated exclusively to pleasure boating. Situated at the root of the Porto Alti Fondali, it offers a serene and picturesque setting for recreational sailors.
Porto Turistico di Manfredonia is more than just a harbor; it is a vibrant gateway to the rich maritime heritage and natural beauty of the Gargano region. With its blend of historical significance, modern amenities, and stunning coastal views, it promises an unforgettable experience for visitors. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a boating aficionado, or simply seeking a picturesque destination, Porto Turistico di Manfredonia is sure to captivate your heart and soul.
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