Riserva naturale Fara San Martino Palombaro

This protected area covers mountainous terrain ranging from 450 to 2,793 meters (1,476 to 9,164 feet) in elevation, with glacial valleys and limestone gorges cutting through the landscape. The varied elevation zones create different environments within a single connected territory.

The reserve was established by ministerial decree in 1983 and later became part of Maiella National Park in 1991. This merger reinforced conservation efforts across the broader region.

The caves within the rocky walls hold traces of human settlement from the Bronze Age through Roman times, including shelters used by hermits seeking solitude in nature. These ancient sites tell stories of how people have lived in these mountains across different eras.

The reserve is open year-round with marked trails allowing visitors to explore different elevation zones. Conditions vary significantly depending on the season and altitude you visit.

The reserve contains four distinct environmental zones ranging from Central European to Alpine ecosystems within its boundaries. This diversity allows visitors to observe multiple biomes in one location.

Location: Province of Chieti

Inception: 1983

Part of: Maiella National Park

GPS coordinates: 42.09048,14.15822

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:09