MONTE PATALECCHIA
The "Monte Patalecchia, Torrenti Lorda e Longaniello" Regional Nature Reserve is located in the western part of the Matese Mountains and extends over 2,223 hectares. The clearings and mountain plateaus are carpeted with grassy formations that have replaced the original Turkey oak and beech forests. This perennial carpet of greenery represents an important oxygen laboratory and a constant fodder factory.
The reserve encompasses the areas of Castelpetroso, Santa Maria del Molise, Castelpizzuto, Isernia, Pettoranello del Molise, Longano, and Sant'Agapito and, since August 2017, has been managed by the environmental association Italia Nostra.
The forest is a living, diverse, and complex environment that hosts a large number of plant and animal species, all linked by mutual biological relationships. The plants are distributed in layers, depending on the light and humidity requirements of each species. The shrub layer consists of young trees, shrubs such as hawthorn, juniper, and hazel, and climbing plants such as ivy. The beech undergrowth is rich in mushrooms, raspberries, oregano, and other medicinal herbs, also useful for research purposes.
The reserve encompasses the areas of Castelpetroso, Santa Maria del Molise, Castelpizzuto, Isernia, Pettoranello del Molise, Longano, and Sant'Agapito and, since August 2017, has been managed by the environmental association Italia Nostra.
The forest is a living, diverse, and complex environment that hosts a large number of plant and animal species, all linked by mutual biological relationships. The plants are distributed in layers, depending on the light and humidity requirements of each species. The shrub layer consists of young trees, shrubs such as hawthorn, juniper, and hazel, and climbing plants such as ivy. The beech undergrowth is rich in mushrooms, raspberries, oregano, and other medicinal herbs, also useful for research purposes.
The mountain's steep slopes are marked by deep grooves that create ever-changing and evocative plays of light, with ridges and panoramic viewpoints immersed in a healthy environment that remains largely untouched. The picturesque blooms and nature trails offer opportunities for walking, trekking (even at donkey pace), hiking, and snowshoeing. The ancient paths and sheep tracks that lead to the surrounding peaks are also accessible on horseback and mountain bike.
Mammals are the predominant animal species in the area, easily identifiable even without sightings. Among the most common species are wild boar, fallow deer, and roe deer. Carnivores include the fox, easily spotted even near residential areas, the beech marten, and the weasel. There is also abundant evidence of the widespread presence of the Apennine wolf. Of particular importance is the presence of the yellow-bellied toad, a toad-like animal now at risk of extinction, whose identification is made easier by its small size and bright coloration.
Mammals are the predominant animal species in the area, easily identifiable even without sightings. Among the most common species are wild boar, fallow deer, and roe deer. Carnivores include the fox, easily spotted even near residential areas, the beech marten, and the weasel. There is also abundant evidence of the widespread presence of the Apennine wolf. Of particular importance is the presence of the yellow-bellied toad, a toad-like animal now at risk of extinction, whose identification is made easier by its small size and bright coloration.
From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a marvelous view: villages scattered all around, splashes of color and life, the spectacular Basilica Minore dell'Addolorata, and, on the other side, a bright, velvety green.
A precious heritage to be protected, the reserve can offer opportunities for the development of sustainable economic activities, contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, and stand out as an ideal place to educate younger generations to respect nature and the careful use of the land's resources.
A precious heritage to be protected, the reserve can offer opportunities for the development of sustainable economic activities, contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, and stand out as an ideal place to educate younger generations to respect nature and the careful use of the land's resources.
CASTELPETROSO
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