Monte Raschio

The ancient beech forest has survived on the plateau of a volcanic cone. Under the influence of the Mediterranean climate, typical beech forest species mix with species from the Mediterranean region. The beech characterises the forest structure. Austrian oak and sweet chestnut grow scattered in between, with European hornbeam, wych elm, and manna ash in the understory. The herb layer, which turns into a sea of flowers in spring, is characterised by butcher’s broom. The wildlife benefits from the cavity-rich old-growth beech trees.

• UNESCO recognition: 2017
• Protected area: Bracciano-Martignano Regional Natural Park
• Beech forest region: Central Mediterranean
• Area: 73.73 ha
• Number of component parts: 1
• Altitudinal range: colline (400 – 554 m above sea level)
• Fauna: European wildcat, Corsican hare, Hedgehog, Garden dormouse, Western barbastelle, Eurasian hoopoe, Spectacled salamander, Alpine longhorn beetle