About
This misleading white sand beach's dazzling color is caused by a neighboring factory's chemical discharge.
Unlike most of the Italian coastline, this idyllic beach appears to perfectly resemble that of a pristine Caribbean resort—that is, with the exception of the giant smokestacks looming behind it. You’d expect that this tropical haven of white sand, known as Spiagge Bianche, or “White Beaches,” would be a popular hotspot for tourists, but the beach is unlikely to be found in most Italian guidebooks and travel websites. That’s because the white sand and light blue water of Spiagge Bianche are artificially created, and unintentionally so. Most beaches in Italy are distinctly Mediterranean, featuring darker water and rocky cliffs, but on the western coast of the country there lies a stretch of white sand alongside a bright hue of turquoise water. Unlike most of the Italian coastline, this idyllic beach appears to perfectly resemble that of a pristine Caribbean resort—that is, with the exception of the giant smokestacks looming behind it.
