Mount Barro Park

Introduction

Description

It encompasses the mountain group of the same name that rises solitary, 922 metres above sea level, in the hilly region between Brianza and Lecco, close to Lake Como. The park has an extension of only 665 hectares and yet enjoys considerable importance for its naturalistic, historical archaeological and landscape resources. The agro-forestry heritage is truly rich: the northern valleys are occupied by valuable oak, linden, maple, chestnut and locust tree woods, while on the southern slopes there are oak and downy oak woods. Great attention is paid to the management of grasslands, which are subject to shrub encroachment following the abandonment of agricultural practices. The grasslands are, in fact, particularly rich in species: there are up to 50 per square metre. This floristic richness prompted the Park Authority to found the Regional Centre for Autochthonous Flora, which deals with the reproduction of specimens of particular scientific and conservation interest. The grasslands are also frequented by various species of invertebrates, in particular butterflies. The existence of groundwater determines the presence of various molluscs and crustaceans, while the woodland springs are home to salamanders, frogs, toads and newts. The avifauna is particularly rich, with nesting and passage birds. The geological features (erratic boulders and outcrops) and archaeological areas are also remarkable. Remains from Roman times can be found in the Hermitage (former sanatorium, now park centre) and San Michele, while the Franciscan church of Santa Maria is late Gothic. Finally, the agricultural building complex of Camporeso is noteworthy.

Information

Year of foundation: 2002
Area: 665 hectares
Maximum elevation: Monte Barro (922m)
Municipalities concerned: Galbiate, Garlate, Lecco, Malgrate, Pescate, Valmadrera
Institutional site: www.parcobarro.lombardia.it/_parco and www.parcomontebarro.it