Riserva naturale speciale Lago di Pergusa, Regional nature reserve near Enna, Italy.
Riserva naturale speciale Lago di Pergusa is a protected nature reserve near Enna that encompasses a salt lake surrounded by hills of the Erei Mountains. The site features observation stations, educational facilities, and walking paths that allow visitors to explore the natural environment year-round.
Archaeological findings from the lake bottom reveal human settlements dating to Neolithic times, with the oldest artifacts from the Copper Age. The area served as an important location for various civilizations in the Sicily region over many centuries.
The lake has been linked to ancient mythology since classical times, particularly through the story of Persephone mentioned in old texts and literature. Visitors can sense this legendary connection while exploring the quiet landscape that has inspired writers and thinkers for thousands of years.
The reserve is open to visitors year-round and features marked routes for bird watching and nature exploration. The best time to visit is during bird migration seasons when various species concentrate in the area.
The lake water sometimes turns red not from algae but from tiny crustaceans that develop red pigmentation as protection from intense sunlight. This phenomenon is rare to witness and makes any visit during these events particularly memorable.
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