The Pontine archipelago lies almost in the centre of the Tyrrhenian Sea, in front of the Lazio coastline, and is governed by the Province of Latina. There are two groups of islands: Ponza, Palmarola, Zannone and Gavi to the north-west, Ventotene and Santo Stefano to the south-east. Twenty-two nautical miles separate the two. The geographical co-ordinates of the archipelago are 40° 47’ 10’’ latitude north; 0° 23’ 40” longitude east of the meridian of Monte Mario (Rome).
The Pontine Islands are mainly of volcanic origin. The different chemical characteristics of the rocks give them an unmistakable appearance.


Ventotene: the island has a surface area of just 124 hectares and a permanent population of fewer than 500 inhabitants. The Roman era left the most significant traces here. The Romans built a large residential complex, Villa Giulia. They dug the harbour out of the rock; they created the fish pool beneath the lighthouse and they provided the island with large water reservoirs. The urban appearance can be seen in the simply-designed buildings and taste for compositions of great scenographic effect. The zigzag ramp leading from the roman port to the heart of the town symbolises the link between the island’s history ancient and modern.

Santo Stefano: just over 1 nautical mile from Ventotene is the isle of Santo Stefano. Circular in shape, with a surface area of 28 hectares, its silhouette is dominated by the massive penitentiary built in 1795. It was used until 1965, when it was abandoned as a prison for life prisoners. The totally uninhabited island is popular for excursions and for its wild vegetation.

Ponza: this is one of the most interesting Mediterranean islands. The general setting and surroundings of Ponza offer a sight that makes landing here delightful and fascinating. The delicate semicircle of pink and white houses around the port, the small cemetery and the island’s silhouette provide visions of touching beauty. Ponza is a narrow and elaborate strip of rock that millennia of stormy seas have corroded and eaten away. The island’s perimeter offers some charming spots: the islet of Gavi, Cala Gaetano, Punta Nera, Cala di Frontone…The sea depths are very various and charming.

Zannone: this lies approximately 6 miles from Ponza and is an oasis for migratory game. It is one of the few areas to maintain the characteristics of the typical flora and fauna of the Mediterranean almost intact. Zannone is part of the Circeo National Park.

Palmarola: ituated approximately 8 miles from the port of Ponza, it is uninhabited but in summer a few back up and refreshment points are opened.