Riserva naturale Badia Prataglia, Nature reserve in Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, Italy.
Riserva naturale Badia Prataglia is a protected forest area located in the mountains between Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, straddling two provinces and spanning a large territory. The landscape consists mainly of beech and silver fir forests interspersed with streams, steep slopes, and a network of walking paths for visitors to explore.
In 1380, the Florentine Republic took control of the forest from the Guidi family, shifting political power in the region. The Florentines later handed management to the Opera del Duomo of Santa Maria Novella, where it remained under their authority for centuries.
The name Badia Prataglia comes from the ancient monastery that once stood here, reflecting how deeply religious communities shaped this forest. Visitors today can sense this heritage through the layout of the land and the way the reserve honors both its spiritual past and natural present.
The best time to visit is between spring and autumn when trails are dry and easy to walk, and weather remains predictable. Sturdy hiking boots and fitness are important since the paths climb uphill through varied terrain and can be physically demanding.
Since 1848, the reserve has maintained one of Italy's oldest arboretums with more than 100 tree species from around the world, including giant sequoias and Japanese cypresses. This living collection reveals how 19th-century foresters experimented with international species and tested their survival in mountain conditions.
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