La Piedra del Fauno

La Piedra del Fauno is a rock carved into a head that emerges at water level in the Mar Menor, beside the Las Brisas residential development at km 11 of La Manga, in the municipality of San Javier. It is the largest rock in a small breakwater in a swimming area, and one of the area's lesser-known curiosities.

What is carved

The carving shows half a face with a thick beard touching the water and a curved horn, features reminiscent of a mythological faun. Nearby is another partly carved rock, which some visitors identify as a dragon's head. There is no firm information about who carved them or when.

How to reach the rock

The breakwater extends out from the shore, and in summer, when the water level drops, you can reach the carving almost without getting your feet wet. Access is free and it is suitable for visiting with children, but there are no facilities: no toilets or bars at the site.

A curiosity that went viral

The carving became popular on social media through accounts campaigning to protect the Mar Menor, bringing it to the attention of people beyond Las Brisas. For more stops like this, see the places of interest in La Manga.