Depressed ancient beech forest of Monte Raschio

The Monte Raschio beech forest is a protected woodland within the Bracciano-Martignano Regional Natural Park where ancient trees grow at elevations between 440 and 552 meters. The forest spans approximately 74 hectares and contains beech specimens that have stood for several centuries.

The forest is a remnant from the last Ice Age, showing how plant species survived after glaciers retreated. During Roman times, the area served a practical purpose with seven water collection points built to feed the Trajan-Paul aqueduct system.

The forest gained international recognition in 2017 as part of a broader European network of ancient beech woodlands, reflecting global efforts to protect these ecosystems. The managed trails and park structure show how local communities work to preserve this natural legacy for future generations.

The forest can be explored via marked hiking trails, including the Monte Raschio CAI 175C and Fonte Petrella CAI 175D routes. Visitors should wear proper hiking boots and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as forest paths can become slippery after rain.

The forest grows at unusually low elevations for beech woodlands, made possible by the cool microclimate created by the nearby Lake Bracciano. This phenomenon demonstrates how local water bodies influence temperature and allow tree species to thrive in regions where they would not normally be found.