Abruzzo, Lazio & Molise

The component parts are situated in the Central Apennines. They comprise highly natural beech forests with natural dynamics on dolomite, with truly ancient individual trees of up to 560 years of age. The beech climbs up to the tree line, where dwarf juniper encroachment occurs. On dry slopes, heat-loving trees such as Austrian oak and Italian maple are also interspersed. Numerous orchid species are found there. Many endemic species from glacial times have survived here. The only genuine primeval forest in Italy grows in the Valle Cervara, and it is home to many beetle species typical for primeval forests, such as the Alpine longhorn beetle.

• UNESCO recognition: 2017
• Protected area: Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park
• Beech forest region: Central Mediterranean
• Area: 936.63 ha
• Number of component parts: 5
• Altitudinal range: montane to high montane (1,400 – 1,850 m above sea level)
• Fauna: Marsican brown bear, Wolf, European wildcat, Chamois, Bechstein’s bat, Eagle owl, White-backed woodpecker