The Li Galli Islands of Positano offer stunning natural beauty, with a rich mythological history, and are an exclusive destination for travelers seeking luxury and tranquility.
The Li Galli Islands in Positano are a captivating tourist destination with its unique charm, both in terms of history, nature and the mythology that surrounds it.
Located in the Mediterranean Sea, close to the coast of Positano, this archipelago consists of several small islands that hold many historical stories and legends, including the story of the mythological sirens who are said to inhabit this place.
Not only that, the natural beauty offered by Li Galli also makes it a must-visit place for travelers who want a more exclusive and different experience.
History of the Li Galli Islands
The Li Galli Islands have existed since ancient times, and their history is filled with myths and legends. It is said that these islands were the home of the sirens, mythological creatures in Greek stories known for their ability to lure sailors with their beautiful songs.
Many sailors were lulled by the melodious voices of these sirens, which eventually caused their ships to sink around these islands.
According to legend, many ships sank in the waters around Li Galli due to strong currents and unpredictable strong winds. This created a sinister image of the island, where stories of sirens luring sailors to their doom flourished.
In fact, traces of sunken ships, including amphorae and treasure, are still found on the seabed around the islands.
However, despite having a rather dark history, Li Galli is not only known for its mythological stories. The island also has great archaeological value, with many ruins found around Gallo Lungo, one of the largest islands in the archipelago.
The island has been inhabited since Roman times, and evidence of the ancient civilization can still be found among the shrubs, wild herbs and Mediterranean flowers that grow abundantly in the area.
Origin of the Name Li Galli
The name “Li Galli” itself is closely related to Greek mythology, especially the legend of the sirens. In Greek epic poetry, sirens were depicted as creatures with the faces of women and the bodies of birds who had melodious voices that lured sailors.
The name “Galli” means greedy birds, referring to the greedy birds often mentioned in the legend of the sirens. By combining elements of local mythology and natural history, this name further enriches the story of the islands.
Although the island is often associated with mythological creatures that are deadly to sailors, the name Li Galli provides a bit of humor through the difference between the sirens depicted with bird bodies and the meaning of “Galli” itself, which means roosters or cocks.
The uniqueness of this name, although far from the story of the sirens, adds an eccentric value that attracts visitors who come.
Exploring Li Galli Positano
Li Galli Positano consists of three main islands, namely Gallo Lungo, La Castelluccia, and Gallo Lungo di Mezzo.
These islands have a rich history and incredible natural beauty, making them a very attractive tourist destination. Gallo Lungo, the largest of the three islands, is famous for its dolphin-like shape when viewed from the air.
In addition, There are various hidden caves, secluded beaches and crystal clear waters, creating the perfect setting for those seeking tranquility or wanting to explore the rich marine life in the area.
The islands are also a very popular spot for travelers seeking privacy, as they are privately owned and only accessible by private boat.
Even if you can’t land on these islands, you can still enjoy their beauty from the sea, sailing around Li Galli to experience its enchanting natural beauty.
Li Galli As The House of Sirens in Mythology
In Greek mythology, sirens were half-woman, half-bird creatures known for their beautiful voices that could lure sailors.
Sirens were believed to live around the islands, including Li Galli, and their seductive songs were believed to be the cause of many shipwrecks.
Although sirens do not actually exist, their legends provide a mystical allure that adds to the charm of the Li Galli Islands.
In the past, these islands were very dangerous for sailors, with hidden reefs and strong currents, which eventually led to many shipwrecks.
The sound of birds chirping surrounding the islands adds to the spooky feel that reinforces the myth of the sirens. However, today, Li Galli is better known as a place that offers calming natural beauty and exclusivity to visiting tourists.
How to Get to the Li Galli Islands
To get to the Li Galli Islands, visitors can rent a private boat or join a boat tour departing from Positano. Gozzo type boats, traditional Italian boats, are often used for these tours, offering a fun experience while sailing around the islands.
Although the islands are privately owned and there is no access to land, visitors can still enjoy the beautiful views from the sea, making it a unique travel experience.
If you want to visit Li Galli, be sure to book a boat tour in advance, as traveling to these islands is not something to be taken lightly.
Owner of the Li Galli Islands
The unique history of the Li Galli Islands began in the 20th century, when the islands were purchased by Leonid Fedorovič Mjasin, a Russian choreographer and dancer who planned to turn the islands into an arts center.
Although this project never came to fruition, a magnificent villa was built on the ruins of the ancient site. Later, in 1989, the islands were bought by Rudolf Nureyev, a famous ballerina who restored the ancient Roman fortress and turned it into a space for a private exhibition.
Today, after several changes of ownership, Li Galli is owned by Giovanni Russo, a Sorrentine entrepreneur who has transformed the island into a more exclusive destination and made it a luxury destination sought after by international tourists.
The Li Galli Islands in Positano are a fascinating place with rich history, beautiful nature and strong mythology.
From the legend of the sirens that lured sailors, to the stunning natural beauty, Li Galli offers an extraordinary experience for anyone who visits this place.
If you are looking for a place that combines natural beauty with rich history and culture, the Socotra Islands are the right choice.
