Just 5 kilometers south of the picturesque town of Bolsena lies a natural and archaeological treasure: the Naturalistic Archaeological Park of Turona. This park offers a typical view of the hills covering the Vulsini mountains in upper Lazio and is a refuge for the local flora and fauna.
The landscape of the park is enriched by a variety of trees and shrubs, including hornbeams, flowering ash, privet, broom, honeysuckle, elm, elder, dogwood, dog rose, medlar, bramble and rowan. The groves and streams are home to these species, creating a unique natural environment where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
At the center of the park, the Fosso Turona and the Fosso Arlena play a fundamental role. These streams border the park and create breathtaking scenery with their waterfalls. The Fosso Arlena, in particular, originates from the natural springs of Bucine and its waters flow down to the lake, contributing to the water wealth of the region.
The Naturalistic Archaeological Park of Turona is also a refuge for various species of animals typical of the Monti Volsini. Some of these species are rare or completely absent in the surrounding areas. Among the guests of the park, we find the gray heron, the dipper, the green frog, the Dalmatian frog, the tree frog and some species of crabs. It is not uncommon to spot eels coming up from the lake or some trout in the crystalline water of the streams.
In addition to the naturalistic beauty, the park also holds a precious archaeological heritage. On the slopes of a hill called “della Capriola,” archaeologists have discovered a sepulchral area which has yielded numerous artifacts related to funeral furnishings. Today, these finds are proudly displayed at the Bolsena Lake Territorial Museum, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the region.
Along the route marked by the Fosso di Arlena, you can still admire the remains of several mills dating back to the 14th century. These mills were essential for the life of the surrounding communities, including those of Marta and Capodimonte. Many of them are reduced to ruins, but one of these mills, located on top of the hill near the Bucine spring, has remained intact and was active until the 1960s.
Ultimately, the Turona Archaeological Naturalistic Park represents an unmissable destination for lovers of nature, history and culture. Exploring this park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of northern Lazio and discover its rich historical and archaeological heritage. During your visit, be sure to respect the natural beauty and follow the park’s rules to preserve its charm for future generations.
Photo by Immanuel “manu” vitex from GoogleMaps.
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