Coastal granite quarries were a significant part of the history of the Maddalena Archipelago, where granite mining began in the 19th century and it was exported to many parts of the world. They are found particularly on the beaches of the western part of its largest island. The most shining example is the pink and white granite quarry of Cala Francese, active until the Second World War and now open to the public: you can admire via ferratas, old machinery, a train and cranes. Located to the south of the promontories of Punta Carlotto - known for its military battery - and Punta Testiccioli, the large inlet of Cala Francese forms various small rocky beaches and can be reached along the road that leads to the fortification. Particularly in its southernmost part, there is a small beach made up of light, medium-grained sand, embellished with smooth pebbles.