Punta Pennata, an island near Bacoli in the Gulf of Naples, is on the market, stirring contrasting visions between private ownership for luxury investment and the dream of transforming it into a public park, championed by the local mayor.
Rare Gem in the Gulf: Punta Pennata Island Awaits a New Chapter

Rare Gem in the Gulf: Punta Pennata Island Awaits a New Chapter
The historic Punta Pennata island near Naples sparks a debate between private investment and community preservation as it goes up for sale.
The sale of Punta Pennata, a secluded Mediterranean island located just off the coast of Bacoli, Italy, has become a focal point for contrasting visions of its future. Known for its rich history marked by the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, this picturesque piece of land is approximately 20 miles from the bustling center of Naples. For several months, it has been listed on the market, attracting the attention of potential wealthy buyers who see it as an exclusive investment opportunity.
The island's lush vegetation and historical significance have been highlighted in promotional materials from Sotheby’s International Realty, proclaiming it a “prestigious investment” with the potential for luxury development. However, this vision stands in stark contrast to that of Bacoli’s mayor, Josi Gerardo Della Ragione. He envisions Punta Pennata as a communal public park that could serve as a green refuge for both residents and tourists looking to explore a quieter, less commercial part of the Italian coastline.
“It is like Neverland,” remarked Della Ragione, drawing a parallel to Peter Pan's fictional paradise. He believes the untouched natural beauty of the island could provide a peaceful getaway and a welcome respite from the urban chaos. As discussions unfold around the potential sale, the future of Punta Pennata hangs in the balance, caught between the allure of private ownership and the communal dream of preservation.
The island's lush vegetation and historical significance have been highlighted in promotional materials from Sotheby’s International Realty, proclaiming it a “prestigious investment” with the potential for luxury development. However, this vision stands in stark contrast to that of Bacoli’s mayor, Josi Gerardo Della Ragione. He envisions Punta Pennata as a communal public park that could serve as a green refuge for both residents and tourists looking to explore a quieter, less commercial part of the Italian coastline.
“It is like Neverland,” remarked Della Ragione, drawing a parallel to Peter Pan's fictional paradise. He believes the untouched natural beauty of the island could provide a peaceful getaway and a welcome respite from the urban chaos. As discussions unfold around the potential sale, the future of Punta Pennata hangs in the balance, caught between the allure of private ownership and the communal dream of preservation.