The Province of Carbonia-Iglesias is in the extreme south west of the island and is the smallest of the provinces. It is surrounded by the province of Cagliari to the east and south, Medio Campidano to the north and the Sardinian Sea to the west. It is a relatively new province which was created in 2001 when the number of provinces for the island increased from four to eight. Deposits of lead, zinc, silver, barium and copper were found and mined in this area but the mining has been abandoned since the Second World War. The province of Carbonia-Iglesias includes two islands, San Pietro and Sant'Antioco which is joined to the mainland by an artificial isthmus. The countryside is natural, wild and mainly untouched and the rocky coastlines have sandy beaches and clear seas. The two islands are popular holiday destinations and are a particular favourite with yachtsmen.