Regional Parks of Italy
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Latest page update: 24 January 2025
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By Dion Protani
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This collection of Regional Parks of Italy visits four distinct Italian regions. In the south, the region of Campania is represented by the Matese Regional Park while heading north to Tuscany we find the Parco di Pratolino which is also part a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Medici Villas and Gardens in Tuscany.
Another park that forms a UNESCO listing is the Po Delta Regional Park in Veneto; rich in wildlife and marking the point where Italy's longest river, the River Po empties out into the Adriatic Sea, it's recognised by UNESCO under the 1995 listing: Ferrara, City of the Renaissance and its Po Delta. |
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The final park in the collection is the Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè which is situated in the Val di Susa, close to the French border in the region of Piedmont, north western Italy.
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Matese Regional Park
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Matese Regional Park is a stunning natural reserve located in southern Italy, spanning the regions of Campania and Molise.
Established in 2002, the park protects the pristine landscapes of the Matese Mountains, part of the Apennine range. Covering over 33,000 hectares, it features rugged peaks, verdant forests, and glacial lakes such as Lago del Matese, one of the park's highlights. The area is rich in biodiversity, home to wolves, golden eagles, and a variety of plant species. Historical sites include ancient Samnite settlements and medieval villages like Piedimonte Matese. Popular activities include hiking, caving, and exploring waterfalls. |
Matese Regional Park, Campania
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Po Delta Regional Park
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The Po Delta Regional Park, located in northern Italy across Emilia-Romagna and Veneto, is one of Europe’s largest wetlands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering over 54,000 hectares, the park is a mosaic of lagoons, marshes, and waterways shaped by the Po River. Established in 1988, it is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 370 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatching.
Key attractions include Comacchio’s charming canals, the historic Abbey of Pomposa, and scenic boat tours through its lush wetlands. The Po Delta’s unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage offers a a glimpse into Italy’s ecological richness. |
Po Delta Regional Park, Veneto
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Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavre
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The Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè is a stunning natural park located in the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy, nestled in the Cottian Alps. Established in 1980, the park covers over 11,000 hectares and is known for its rugged mountain landscapes, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife, including chamois, ibex, and golden eagles.
Key points of interest include the towering peaks of Monte Orsiera and Monte Rocciavrè, glacial lakes, and scenic hiking trails that offer breathtaking views. The area also has historical significance, with remnants of ancient shepherding traditions and military fortifications. |
Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, Piedmont
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Parco di Pratolino
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The Parco di Pratolino, also known as Villa Demidoff, is a historic park located just outside Florence, in the Tuscan countryside.
Originally created in the 16th century by Francesco I de' Medici, it was designed as a lavish Medici villa with gardens filled with fountains, grottos, and sculptures. While the original villa no longer exists, the park remains a stunning example of Renaissance landscaping. Its most famous feature is the colossal statue of "Appennino" by Giambologna, a striking masterpiece symbolizing nature. The park also includes serene woodlands, ponds, and trails. |
Parco di Pratolino, Tuscany
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