The history of the Riserva naturale Sasso Fratino is intertwined with that of the region it inhabits. The forest has been a silent witness to human history, with beech trees living and dying here for hundreds of years. The forest’s exploitation began in the late 14th century when timber was in high demand for shipyards, churches, and palaces. However, its challenging terrain shielded it from extensive exploitation, preserving its pristine condition.
The significance of this ancient forest led to its declaration as a nature reserve in 1959, marking the first such reserve in Italy. The forest’s extraordinary value over centuries is recognized, and its protection is primarily due to its challenging access and the decision to protect the land within the Casentino Forest National Park. This sense of preservation earned the forest the European Diploma for Nature Conservation in 1985.
In the modern context, the reserve’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017 underscores its universal importance. The forest represents the heart of the Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona, and Campigna National Park, one of Europe’s most valuable forest areas. The Via di Francesco pilgrimage trail that passes through this area offers pilgrims a chance to witness this significant, ancient forest, connecting them with nature and centuries of history.
The history of the Riserva naturale Sasso Fratino is intertwined with that of the region it inhabits. The forest has been a silent witness to human history, with beech trees living and dying here for hundreds of years. The forest’s exploitation began in the late 14th century when timber was in high demand for shipyards, churches, and palaces. However, its challenging terrain shielded it from extensive exploitation, preserving its pristine condition.
The significance of this ancient forest led to its declaration as a nature reserve in 1959, marking the first such reserve in Italy. The forest’s extraordinary value over centuries is recognized, and its protection is primarily due to its challenging access and the decision to protect the land within the Casentino Forest National Park. This sense of preservation earned the forest the European Diploma for Nature Conservation in 1985.
In the modern context, the reserve’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2017 underscores its universal importance. The forest represents the heart of the Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona, and Campigna National Park, one of Europe’s most valuable forest areas. The Via di Francesco pilgrimage trail that passes through this area offers pilgrims a chance to witness this significant, ancient forest, connecting them with nature and centuries of history.
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An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
By entering your email, you get the Quick Start emails, free Pilgrim Essentials Kit, and more resources, and agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.
An opportunity for pilgrims, seekers, and adventurers to take an inward journey alongside the spirit of St Francis.
A Toscana, non-religious non-profit to share the discovery and preservation of Franciscan tradition, Nature, and Art.
Disclosure: We may receive affiliate compensation for some of the links on this site if you decide to purchase linked items, helping us to maintain our trails and provide services to our community of pilgrims. Read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.
