The Monti Sibillini National Park is a glorious ecosystem spanning the regions of Le Marche and Umbria for over 70,000 hectares, and includes the homonymous mountain massif itself: the highest peak is the majestic Monte Vettore which, at 2,476 metres, dominates the two regions.

The Park Authority is responsible for the protection of all the numerous riches which form the basis of the natural, cultural and historical identity of the Sibillini.

What To See

At a thousand metres above sea level, in the heights above Visso, the Sanctuary of Macereto is a must-see, considered the most significant example of 16th-century Renaissance architecture in the Marche region. This religious masterpiece was built near to where the castle of the counts of Fiastra previously stood.
Of course, no review of the spectacular places in the Monti Sibillini National Park can be considered complete without the inclusion of Lake Fiastra, which can be reached by following the course of the Nera River upstream towards the hinterland. Although it is an artificial lake, its waters boast a truly striking aquamarine colour throughout the year.

Visiting the Monti Sibillini National Park: The Legends of Sibyl and Pilate

The most famous legend around the Monti Sibillini National Park is that of Sibyl: it is said that the renowned prophetess lived in one of the caves of the homonymous mountain.

According to another legend, the body of Pilate (the Roman procurator who decreed the death of Christ) was dragged by animals into a lake located in a valley of Monte Vettore. Whether true or not, it really is worthwhile taking a detour here, to admire the magnificent surroundings with their almost lunar-landscape feel.

Sport In The Park

When it comes to indulging your passion for sporting activities in the park, you really are spoiled for choice: during the winter season, for example, you can try your hand at skiing in the Forca Canapine area, while along the rivers during the summer months both canyoning and rafting are popular. Sport climbing is particularly popular in the park, especially along the northern slopes of Monte Bove. And that’s not all, because paragliding and hang gliding are two other activities not to be missed in the Monti Sibillini National Park, thanks to its:

• Particular environmental conditions
• Morphological structure
• Atmospheric currents

There are also numerous signposted trails for mountain biking, the perfect mode of transport to get up close and experience a whole variety of captivating scenery.

The Hidden Eye of the Monti Sibillini National Park

The “Hidden Eye of the Monti Sibillini National Park” Association offers the chance to observe the forest’s wildlife in its natural habitat, thanks to photo traps that have been hidden in various positions in the park.
The project was started a few years ago, and, over time, has expanded more and more: it now benefits from collaboration with professionals from various other related sectors, whose common goal is to support a project that serves not only to study the area, but also to protect it.
In this way, the secret life of the forest can be revealed, to both adults and children, without the ecosystem being altered in any way.

A Commitment To Discovery

Initially set up purely as entertainment, the Hidden Eye Project has turned into a something significantly more important, a commitment that’s attracted the direct involvement of the Sibillini Park itself. It’s also been the driving force for the creation of Walden APS, a non-profit association dedicated solely to the promotion of social, educational, and civic teambuilding projects.
For those interested in supporting this initiative, you can visit the occhiodeisibillini.com website where you can find a vast assortment of products to choose from in our shop, ranging from bags to calendars to T-shirts, and much more; there’s even a configurator to customize both bags and T-shirts to your personal design. If shopping’s not for you, there’s always the option of making a welcome donation using the dedicated ‘donate’ button.
Visiting the Monti Sibillini National Park is certainly an unmissable opportunity for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the delight of a unique and picturesque natural setting.