Depressed ancient beech forest of Monte Raschio

The Monte Raschio forest contains ancient beech trees reaching heights of 45 meters within the Bracciano-Martignano Regional Natural Park at elevations between 440 and 552 meters.

The forest represents a remnant from the last Quaternary glaciation, where Romans constructed seven water collection points to supply the Trajan-Paul aqueduct system.

The area received UNESCO World Heritage recognition in 2017 as part of the Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe.

Visitors can explore the 74-hectare forest through designated hiking paths, including the Monte Raschio CAI 175C and Fonte Petrella CAI 175D trails.

The forest maintains its beech population at unusually low altitudes due to the cool microclimate generated by nearby Lake Bracciano, located 35 kilometers from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Location: Oriolo Romano

Part of: Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe, Parco naturale regionale del complesso lacuale Bracciano - Martignano, Natura 2000

GPS coordinates: 42.17380,12.16040

Latest update: March 8, 2025 18:15