The common sea turtle, Caretta caretta, is a frequent frequenter of the waters of Campania, it transits in the pelagic areas during the seasonal migrations, stopping in sandy coastal areas to feed and nest. Unfortunately, however, an average of 50 specimens die each year due to interaction with human activities.

The Turtle Point of the Anton Dohrn Zoological Station of Naples (SZN), based in Portici, is part of the Regional Network of the Temporary Detention Nodes of Sea Turtles and carries out awareness actions aimed mainly at fishermen and coastal communities of the entire regional coast to educate on good behavioral practices. It also recovers specimens in difficulty by following them through treatment and rehabilitation until they are released into the sea. It also carries out monitoring and protection of nests in the summer months, coordinating a thick network of volunteers.

At the base is scientific research for the production of data useful for the study of the marine and coastal habitat, biodiversity and ecosystems with a view to a conscious and sustainable use of marine resources. The management of public access to the Turtle Point with guided tours is entrusted to the Dohrn Foundation whose mission is to support and disseminate the scientific research of the SZN in terms of environmental education and awareness.

With a free contribution you will support the many activities at Turtle Point and help us protect our ambassadors of the sea.

Inside the former municipal slaughterhouse of Portici, stands the Turtle Point - Recovery and Rehabilitation Center for Sea Turtles, an exceptional example of urban redevelopment that has transformed a place of death into a place of life, recovery and survival.

Inside, these animals found in difficult conditions, mainly due to the impact of human activities on the environment, are cared for and assisted until their return to nature and freedom.
This is not an exhibition aquarium but a different and unique journey, which allows you to discover up close what it means for a sea turtle to ingest a plastic bag or get trapped in a ghost net and in waste that ends up in the sea.

You will closely observe the turtles inside the rehabilitation tanks, an exciting experience, in direct contact with one of the oldest animals on our planet!
You will discover life-size models of large marine vertebrates, such as basking sharks and dolphins!

Come and visit us, your visit will support our work at the service of Nature. Because there is no Culture if not
you know Nature!