A tiny, historic island called Punta Pennata off the coast of Naples will be sold by Sotheby’s to the chagrin of local residents who are campaigning to turn it into public land.

The listing by Sotheby’s describes Punta Pennata as a “historic and natural gem” that is “nestled in the crystal-clear waters of Bacoli.” And it has an unfinished 2,152-square-foot villa with seven rooms and a wine cellar sitting on it.

The island, which was once a peninsula connected to the mainland, has historic roots dating back to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius that blanketed Pompeii with ash. A fleet of ships sailed from what is now Punta Pennata to rescue survivors of the volcanic eruption. The peninsula transformed into an Island after a 1966 storm surge cut it from the mainland.

It is also surrounded by the ancient resort of Baiae, now underwater, where ancient Roman nobility would gather. There are also Roman fishponds on the seabed and the remains of an ancient military port.

“It offers a fascinating and unique retreat,” Sotheby’s wrote in its listing. “With breathtaking views and the picturesque presence of nearby Schiacchetiello, Punta Pennata stands as a unique and exclusive opportunity for a prestigious investment.”

The view from Punta Pennata island. Photo: Massimo Buonaiuto / Alamy Stock Photo.

Josi Della Ragione, the mayor of the fishing town of Bacoli, shared in a statement on Facebook that he is seeking to have the island turned into a public park. The property was listed for an undisclosed price but is estimated to be worth some €5 million ($5.1 million).

“Let’s take it back! It is our paradise on earth… To the people of Bacoli, to the people of Phlegre, we have a challenge to win, together,” Ragione said. “Punta Pennata will become the most beautiful and largest public park in Bacoli.”

Della Ragione vowed that the community would buy the property. In comments to The Guardian, he added that he had already contacted Sotheby’s with his intention and told The Telegraph that regional and national bodies in Italy had approached him to help provide funds to make an offer for the property.

“It is an integral part of our local history, of the scenery. It is a peaceful, uncontaminated spot and we want to protect it,” Della Ragione said. And while Sotheby’s heralded the property as an investment, the mayor added that there are “lots of restrictions” on what can be done on the island “and so it most definitely cannot be used for economic gain.”

Artnet News has reached out to Sotheby’s International Realty for comment but did not hear back by press time. The island’s current owner is unknown but is believed to be a local resident of Naples.