We the Italians October 5, 2015 - 69 | Page 14

th # 69 • OCTOBER 5 , 2015 The Pontines make up an archipelago: individually they are Gavi, Zannone, Palmarola, Ventotene, Santo Stefano and, the first among equals, Ponza, from which the island chain takes its name. Of course these magnificent isles boast a well-developed touristic structure, but it is really the sea, the nature, and the landscape that attract visitors most. Ponza is the most frequented of the islands – a mere 3.1 square miles of terrain, it is a concentration of both rocky and sandy beaches, natural arches, faraglioni or sea-stacks, pristine waters, romantic coves and landfalls for mooring, and magnificent, hilly scenery. But it is also concentrations of tiny, rambling streets, artisan workshops and typical restaurants and cafes buzzing with tourists each evening. Some houses sport slightly-barrel vaulted roofs and some sit right on the port and shine like the sun with their bright, pastel colors. Upon coming here, any sea lover immediately understands that the Pontine 14 | WE THE ITALIANS www.wetheitalians.com