Riserva naturale integrale Grotta Monello, Nature reserve near Syracuse, Italy.
Riserva naturale integrale Grotta Monello is a protected nature reserve located on the eastern section of the Hyblaean plateau, featuring a limestone cave system with stalactites and stalagmites. The underground formation includes interconnected passages that reveal different geological layers.
The cave system was discovered in 1948 when local explorers noticed cold air rising from the ground near an oil mill. This finding led to recognition of the site as an important geological location.
The reserve takes its name from the Monello Cave at its center, which plays an important role in local awareness of the region's geology. Visitors can learn how the cave system connects to the broader landscape through educational displays in the museum.
Access to the cave system requires advance permission and specialized guided tours. Visitors should contact the managing organization to arrange an authorized visit.
The reserve is home to rare cave-dwelling animals found only in this region, including a species of crustacean adapted to underground life. It also shelters multiple bat colonies.
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