Piani di Castelluccio

Piani di Castelluccio is a mountain plateau near Norcia consisting of three distinct sections spread across roughly 15 square kilometers at about 1350 meters elevation. These three areas vary in size and shape but form a connected highland region fed by underground water systems.

The plateau took shape over millennia through geological processes in the Apennine mountains, creating the distinctive landform we see today. This natural formation established the hydrological patterns that continue to influence how water flows through the region.

Local farmers practice age-old cultivation techniques for their renowned lentils, which thrive in the mineral-rich soil found here. These traditions continue to shape the landscape and daily work across the plains today.

Access is easiest during the flowering season between May and July when the landscape is most colorful, though it is also most crowded then. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and prepare for changing mountain weather, as conditions can shift quickly.

The plateau features deep sinkholes called Mergani that naturally regulate water drainage across the entire landscape. These underground openings work as a natural system maintaining the delicate balance of this karst terrain.