Sila National Park
Calabria
Sila National Park, established in 1997 and definitively instituted in 2002, is a vast protected area covering approximately 74,000 hectares on the Sila Plateau in Calabria, southern Italy. The park spans three provinces-Catanzaro, Cosenza, and Crotone-and includes the territories of Sila Piccola, Sila Grande, and Sila Greca. It is characterized by extensive woodlands, which constitute about 80% of its surface, dominated by beech forests and the native Calabrian black pine (Pinus nigra laricio). The park's highest peaks include Mt. Botte Donato (1,928 m) and Mt. Gariglione (1,764 m). Sila is home to significant biodiversity, including the emblematic Italian wolf, which was persecuted for centuries but survived until being removed from the list of harmful species in 1971. The park also contains three of the six artificial basins on the plateau and preserves traditional pastoral activities such as transhumance and alpine farming. Recognized by UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere Programme as Italy's tenth biosphere reserve, Sila National Park is a vital natural heritage site, offering visitors a blend of rich ecology, cultural history, and stunning landscapes.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Sila National Park is from late spring to early autumn when weather conditions favor hiking and outdoor activities. Visitors are advised to check opening hours and park regulations on the official website before arrival. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to explore the park's biodiversity and cultural sites safely. Discounts may be available for groups, students, and seniors. Prepare for variable mountain weather and bring suitable gear for forest trails and mountain excursions.
Faits intéressants
- •Sila National Park is Italy's tenth UNESCO biosphere reserve, recognized for its ecological importance.
- •Approximately 80% of the park's territory is covered by forests, one of the highest percentages among Italian national parks.
- •The park is home to the Calabrian black pine (Pinus nigra laricio), a species endemic to the region.
- •The Italian wolf, a symbol of the park, was removed from the list of harmful species in 1971, ensuring its protection.
- •The park includes three of the six artificial basins on the Sila plateau, which are important for local agriculture and ecology.
Histoire
The idea for protecting the Sila area dates back to 1923 when Italian lawmakers first proposed establishing a national park to conserve the region's unique forests and wildlife.
However, the park was not officially created until 1997, with final administrative structures put in place by a presidential decree in 2002.
The park's boundaries and governance evolved over decades, influenced by social conflicts over land use and forest exploitation dating back to the 18th century.
The establishment of the park was part of a broader effort to protect the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Sila plateau, including traditional pastoralism and rare species such as the Italian wolf.
Guide du lieu
Mt. Botte Donato
The highest peak in the park at 1,928 meters, offering panoramic views of the Sila Plateau and surrounding landscapes. A popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Calabrian Black Pine Forests
Extensive forests dominated by the endemic Pinus nigra laricio, these woodlands are crucial for the park's biodiversity and represent one of the largest continuous black pine forests in Europe.
Artificial Basins of the Sila Plateau
Three of the six artificial reservoirs on the plateau are located within the park, supporting local agriculture, hydroelectric power, and biodiversity habitats.
Contact
Téléphone: 0984 537109
