Sasso Fratino

Here in the northern Apennines, transitions from Mediterranean influence to Central European conditions reign. The very steep and rugged mountain slopes rise from a river valley. An ancient beech forest with beech trees up to 510 years of age has remained untouched here. At an altitude of 1,300 metres, the beech takes over sole reign. Below this altitude, other tree species such as Austrian oak, downy oak, and manna ash are scattered in. The abundance of old and dead wood supports a high number of beetle species typical for primeval forests, cavity dwellers, and species of fungi. 18 species of bats and 20 endemic species are found here.

• UNESCO recognition: 2017
• Protected area: Foreste Casentinesi National Park
• Beech forest region: Central Mediterranean
• Area: 781.43 ha
• Number of component parts: 1
• Altitudinal range: colline to high montane (650 – 1,520 m above sea level)
• Fauna: Wolf, Western barbastelle, Eurasian treecreeper, Spectacled Salamander, Italian cave salamander, Alpine longhorn beetle, Hermit beetle