PUNTA CAMPANELLA - NO SURPRISES...

In my blog dated 18th April regarding my impressions of the recently restored and re-opened path to Punta Campanella, I wrote:

"My remaining concern is what happens once the work is finished. Towards the start of the path is a road sign. It clearly states in 3 languages  "No Entry. (Footpath) - Nur Zu Fuss - Seul a Pied". Unfortunately it is not in Italian, and even before the transformation of the path, cars, Ape trucks and mopeds would venture down as far as they could.  Once it is a clear run straight down to the tip, I shudder to think what might happen, especially since the vast majority of Italians believe more in wheels than using their legs."

Unfortunately never was a forecast more true. Last Sunday, to all accounts, the path became a highway, invaded by mopeds and motorbikes, and any pleasure of a walk in tranquillity immersed in nature, was wiped out by the smell of petrol fumes and the noise of revving engines. So no surprises there.I cannot for the life of me think why the local authorities expected anything different and  can only hope that, now that their eyes have been opened, the necessary measures will be taken, and quickly. We really do not want another Regina Giovanna...

Meantime Giovanni Visetti has adapted his previous map of the area to create an "idiot's guide" (idiots being the appropriate term), showing exactly where access is limited. The idea is that this will be printed and posted at strategic points before the start of the trail, so that no one can claim ignorance to the fact that it is for pedestrians only. To be honest I have my doubts  that it will make any difference at all. The kind of people who ride their mopeds down to the tip of Punta Campanella are not ignorant, just bone idle and couldn't care less. The road signs have always been there forbidding motorised access. There was even a half hearted barrier pushed to one side. They are there to be ignored and it will take more than a poster or two to dissuade them.

Then this evening I read news of a new project to valorise Crapolla...  Whilst the conservation and protection of   ancient historical sites is of course to be welcomed, the mind frankly boggles at what this could entail, should the funds arrive..