Collemeluccio-Montedimezzo MAB Nature Reserve

When the reserve became part of the MAB network in 1977, it consisted of two separate forest areas managed by the State Forestry Corps: the Natural Reserves of Montedimezzo and Collemeluccio, covering a total area of 637 hectares.

In 2014, the reserve was expanded (Collemeluccio-Montedimezzo Alto Molise) and fully integrated into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR), now including the municipalities of Carovilli, Chiauci, Pescolanciano, Pietrabbondante, Roccasicura, San Pietro Avellana, and Vastogirardi, covering a total area of over 25,000 hectares.

Today, the Collemeluccio Nature Reserve, located in the municipality of Pescolanciano, spans 347 hectares. Characterized by white fir formations and home to animals such as deer and wolves, it is an ideal location for nature excursions.

Located in the municipality of Vastogirardi, the Montedimezzo Nature Reserve covers 291 hectares at altitudes between 925 and 1284 meters. This protected area is known for its rich biodiversity and ancient trees, which shelter a vibrant bird population.

In addition to protecting and enhancing one of Italy’s most important and ancient forest areas, which remains almost entirely intact in its environmental and natural values, the reserve boasts 7 Sites of Community Importance (SIC – Habitat Directive), numerous extraordinary archaeological sites, especially from the Italic period, as well as material and oral testimonies related to transhumance civilization.

You can visit, in addition to the barrier-free natural history museum, a large wildlife rehabilitation area and enjoy hiking or mountain biking on clearly marked trails, either with a guide or independently.