Riserva naturale Farma, Nature reserve in Monticiano, Italy.
The Riserva naturale Farma is a nature reserve in Tuscany that follows the Farma stream through dense forests, rolling hills, and open meadows. The landscape shifts from wooded sections to cultivated fields, creating a diverse setting where water shapes the terrain.
Archaeological finds from the Upper Paleolithic period on the river terraces show early human presence in this region. Medieval mills and ironworks developed along the water course and left visible remains that can still be seen today.
The Belagaio Castle shapes the landscape from its ridge position and represents centuries of human settlement in this area. The fortress is now managed by the State Forestry Corps and remains a focal point when walking through the reserve.
Hiking trails run through different ecosystems in the reserve with several swimming spots along the river. Wildlife observation areas allow visitors to watch otters and bat species in their natural habitat without disturbing them.
The reserve is a stronghold for Lanner falcons, rare birds of prey that are regularly spotted here in their wild state. The natural lake Stagno della Troscia holds alpine newts and endemic fish species found nowhere else in the world.
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