Parco Regionale Naturale della Gola della Rossa e di Frasassi

The Gola della Rossa and Frasassi Regional Nature Park protects 10,026 hectares of the Marche, including the karst gorges of the Sentino and Esino rivers and the Frasassi cave system. Established in 1997, it spans five municipalities: Arcevia, Cerreto d’Esi, Fabriano, Genga and Serra San Quirico.

Why it matters

The park’s protected landscape encompasses caves, river gorges, cliffs, woodland and historic settlements. Karst formations and sulfurous springs shape its terrain, while the protected area includes natural and cultural landmarks such as the Frasassi sanctuary, the Abbey of San Vittore alle Chiuse and the castles of Genga and Pierosara.

What to notice

The steep relief brings together river valleys, cliffs, caves and woodland across a varied landscape. The park’s ecological richness is reflected in its documented flora and fauna: the area supports cliff plants such as Moehringia papulosa, nesting birds including the golden eagle and peregrine falcon, and mammals including wolves. Its cave systems are also important to the region’s scientific study of karst environments.

Context and history

Regional Law 57 of 2 September 1997 established the protected area across the two gorges. The park authority combines landscape protection with environmental education and conservation. Its territory includes both the natural formations of the Frasassi gorge and historic places shaped by the long human presence in the area.