Foreste Casentinesi, Monte Falterona, Campigna National Park

This national park spreads across mountainous terrain with ancient beech forests, sandstone formations, and varied plant and animal communities between Florence and Arezzo. The landscape changes noticeably with elevation, creating distinct forest zones from lower to higher slopes.

The Sasso Fratino Reserve became Italy's first protected natural area in 1959, forming the foundation for this park established in 1993. International recognition as a World Heritage Site came later, affirming decades of conservation efforts in the region.

The territory contains the Camaldoli monastery and La Verna sanctuary, both symbols of spiritual life rooted in forest living. These sites show how monastic communities have shaped local traditions and people's relationship with the land over many centuries.

Visitors will find many marked trails throughout the park, accessible from several entry points, with guided tours offered during warmer months. Spring through autumn offers the best conditions for hiking and exploring the various forest zones.

The park protects the headwaters of the Arno and Tiber rivers, two of Italy's most important waterways that originate here. This role as a water source makes the territory crucial to the geography and ecology of central Italy.