Cala Francese Quarries
La Maddalena Island, La Maddalena, Sassari Province, Sardinia, Italy
Cave di Cala Francese, Isola di La Maddalena, La Maddalena, Provincia di Sassari, Sardegna, Italia
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
Cala Francesca Quarries are on La Madalena Island, northeast Sardinia, Italy, near the Strait of Bonifacio.
The site features over 70 minerals, including rare ones like vanadinite and uraninite, within granite and pegmatites.
It has a long mining history, notably supplying granite for the Statue of Liberty, but is now disused.
The area has a Mediterranean climate, rich in local culture tied to Garibaldi and fishing traditions.
Location and Geography
Cala Francesca Quarries are nestled on La Madalena Island, part of the La Madalena archipelago in northeast Sardinia, Italy. This island is just 2 kilometers from the Sardinian mainland, in the Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica. The quarries are located in a fjord-like area, about three kilometers from inhabited paths through Mediterranean scrub, offering a remote and scenic setting for exploration. Nearby, you can visit Caprera Island, famous for Giuseppe Garibaldi's historic home, and the luxurious Costa Smeralda, enhancing the region's appeal.
Minerals and Geology
The quarries are renowned for mineralized pegmatites crossing pink granite, an igneous rock formed from cooled magma. Over 70 minerals have been identified, including common ones like quartz and feldspar, and rarer finds like vanadinite and uraninite. This diversity, stemming from late-stage magma differentiation, makes it a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts.
History and Culture
Mining at Cala Francesca dates back centuries, with significant activity in the 19th century under French ownership, notably supplying granite for the Statue of Liberty. Today, it's disused and part of the La Madalena National Park. The island's culture is rich, influenced by military history and figures like Garibaldi, with traditions in fishing and boating, and attractions like Garibaldi's house and local museums.
Climate and Ecology
The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, supporting diverse flora like Mediterranean scrub and rich marine life. Its national park status ensures environmental conservation, preserving the natural beauty that complements its mineralogical significance.