Monterano Nature Reserve: between ruins, sulfur, and wild nature

Between Tolfa and Lake Bracciano lies the Monterano Nature Reserve, which is a true gem for cinema enthusiasts, as well as for those seeking wild landscapes and ancient ruins.

The charm of this park also derives from what lies in its heart, Antica Monterano, which is a town abandoned in the 18th century due to malaria and French incursions. Its ruins, today, are fascinating witnesses of time: Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed and had the Convent of San Bonaventura built, which dominates the hill with its decadent charm, while nearby stands a leonine fountain carved directly into the rock. Sulfur is a dominant feature among the surprises of the park: there are many geothermal manifestations, such as sulfur jets coming out of the ground, creating an almost lunar landscape. Also noteworthy are the sulfurous vents, reminiscent of the Neapolitan solfatare (sulfur fields).

The Diosilla waterfall is also hidden in the woods; it is small but spectacular and descends between red rocks and thermal pools. As mentioned, Monterano was also chosen by many directors as a backdrop for films and series: from "Ben-Hur" to "Il marchese del grillo" (The Marquis of Grillo), but its timeless atmosphere also fascinated Franco Zeffirelli and Mario Monicelli. It is practically like walking on a movie set. The reserve is suitable for everyone and can be explored both on foot and by mountain bike, as the trails are well-marked and very visible.

The village was abandoned in 1799, and the springs can reach temperatures of up to $50^\circ$C. The Monterano Nature Reserve is a place outside of time, where silence tells more than a thousand words.

cover photo credits Fai