The park's diverse wildlife includes several important large mammal species, with the Italian wolf being the apex predator. Other notable mammals include red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wild boar, and the European wildcat. The park is a crucial habitat for over 100 bird species, including the golden eagle, peregrine falcon, and various woodpecker species. The park's streams support a rich aquatic ecosystem, including the rare spectacled salamander and the Italian stream frog. Recent years have seen successful conservation efforts leading to increased wolf populations and the return of previously extinct species.
The park hosts over 1,000 plant species, with its ancient forests being its crown jewel. The lower elevations feature mixed deciduous forests of oak, hornbeam, and chestnut, while higher altitudes are dominated by magnificent beech forests, some containing trees over 500 years old. The park is home to the Sasso Fratino Integral Nature Reserve, Italy's first strict nature reserve, protecting pristine forest ecosystems. Rare species include the martagon lily, various orchid species, and the yellow lady's slipper. The park also contains significant stands of silver fir, particularly in the Campigna Forest.
The park's geological foundation consists primarily of sandstone and marl-limestone formations from the Miocene epoch, known as the Marnoso-arenacea Formation. This alternating pattern of rock layers has created a distinctive landscape of parallel ridges and deep valleys. The eastern section features dramatic limestone cliffs, particularly around Monte Penna and La Verna. Erosive processes have shaped numerous waterfalls and gorges throughout the park, with the most notable being the Acquacheta Falls, mentioned in Dante's Divine Comedy.
The Casentino Forests have been considered sacred since ancient times, with the area's spiritual significance dating back to the Etruscan period. The forest gained particular importance in the Middle Ages when Saint Francis of Assisi established the La Verna sanctuary in 1224. The area's forestry history is equally significant, with the Venetian Republic managing these woods for shipbuilding timber from the 15th century. In 1914, the Italian State purchased the Casentino Forest, and in 1993, the area was officially designated as a National Park, incorporating the historic forests of Campigna, Badia Prataglia, and La Verna.
Key attractions include the La Verna Sanctuary, perched dramatically on limestone cliffs, and the thousand-year-old Camaldoli Monastery and Hermitage. The park features extensive hiking networks, including the Grande Escursione Appenninica (GEA) long-distance trail. The Acquacheta Falls, immortalized by Dante, offer spectacular views after a challenging hike. The Ridracoli Dam and its artificial lake provide both scenic beauty and educational opportunities about water management. The park also contains numerous medieval villages, including Badia Prataglia and Campigna, which offer insights into traditional mountain life and culture.
The park experiences a typical Apennine mountain climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers are mild and pleasant with average temperatures between 18-25°C (64-77°F), while winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, especially at higher elevations. Snowfall is common between December and March above 800 meters. Spring and autumn bring considerable rainfall, making these seasons lush but potentially challenging for hiking. The park's varying elevations (from 400 to 1,658 meters) create distinct microclimates, with the eastern slopes generally receiving more precipitation than the western areas.
Italy
43.8350°, 11.7920°
1993
368
The Foreste Casentinesi National Park is known for its ancient forests and pristine wilderness areas. It contains one of Italy's most important spiritual sites, the Sanctuary of La Verna. The park features a rich biodiversity with old-growth beech forests and is home to wolves, golden eagles, and numerous species of wild orchids.