Area naturale protetta di interesse locale Monte Castellare, area naturale protetta in Toscana
The Area Naturale Protetta di Interesse Locale Monte Castellare is a protected space in San Giuliano Terme with walking trails through olive groves, garrigue, and wild meadows. The grounds contain archaeological sites from Etruscan and medieval times as well as ruins of the 19th-century Villa Bosniaski.
The grounds show traces of Etruscan settlements that developed over 2000 years ago and was later used as a strategic point on a trade route between Pisa and Lucca. A Polish naturalist built Villa Bosniaski around 1870 on this property.
The name Monte Castellare refers to a castle that once stood here. Today visitors use the space for walking and nature observation, with olive groves reflecting the traditional farming practices of the region.
Visitors should bring sturdy footwear and water as walking paths cross uneven ground. A visitor center with information about flora and fauna is available, and a nearby botanical garden displays local plant species.
The Buca delle Fate is an underground cave from which mysterious steam clouds rise in winter, lending the area a legendary quality. The roughly 40 orchid species growing here, some found only at this location, make it a natural perfume garden.
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