Gole del Sosio – Monti di Palazzo Adriano nature reserve
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La Monti di Palazzo Adriano and Sosio Valley Nature Reserve, also better known as Gorge of the Sosio, covers a vast area that can touch 6000 hectares. Its surface touches several municipalities, including Burgio, Bivonia, Palazzo Adriano and Chiusa Scalfani. The charm of this nature reserve it is truly surprising, given that the scenarios present are truly multiple. Let's discover together the most interesting elements of the Nature Reserve.
The history of the Gole del Sosio
The Monti di Palazzo Adriano and Valle del Sosio Nature Reserve contains a truly first-rate geological history. In fact, it includes within it a sequence of rocks carved into the sea during very ancient times. The rocks extended between the Paleozoic and Cenozoic, and then moved from North to South during the Miocene and Pliocene. Thanks to this process, real ones were formed Mountain ranges from the bowels of the Sea of Sicily.
There is no shortage of fossils capable of highlighting the most ancient history of an extraordinary region, also dating back to the Permanio era. Local Geosites are able to acquire a global interest, with the prospect of better knowing the origins of Sicily in all its forms.
What the Gole del Sosio Nature Reserve contains
The Nature Reserve between Palazzo Adriano and Valle del Sosio includes the so-called Gole del Sosio, from limestone consistency. They are imposing and deep, capable of tracing the road of the Sosio river towards its valley. In these parts, it is possible to appreciate numerous scenarios, with plants of various kinds. Of note are large wooded areas mixed with extensive prairies and several pure and crystalline watercourses. Here, it is as if time has stood still and remained untouched by technological progress.
Among the most interesting plants, here are holm oaks, conifers and oaks, as well as wild olive trees and the very rare euphorbia in the rocky areas. Also important is the Chamomile of the Madonie, in turn very precious. In terms of fauna, the habitat is extremely large and varied. There are over 60 bird species and numerous reptiles and amphibians. The biodiversity of the Nature Reserve must be preserved so that it remains intact over time, given that our life is closely connected to the nature in which we live and must be cared for and respected.
What to do in the Nature Reserve between Palazzo Adriano and Valle del Sosio and in the surroundings
The Gole del Sosio and the Nature Reserve are a perfect destination for organizing intriguing excursions, among breathtaking country paths. It takes very little to get in touch with a nature without borders, fully experiencing the beauty of an ethereal flora and fauna. Enthusiasts can admire a luxuriant panorama, remaining entranced in front of an infinite charm.
At the same time, several locations are worth visiting. A clear example is Bivona, famous above all for the cultivation of peaches. Burgio can be appreciated for its medieval appearance, while Chiusa Sclafani has an agricultural connotation. Finally, Palazzo Adriano sees a perfect coexistence between the Sicilian and Albanian ethnic groups.
How to reach the Reserve at Palazzo Adriano
To reach your destination by car, you have to take the State Road 115 from Agrigento to Sciacca and exit at Ribera. Continue along the SS 386 towards Burgio and turn right 2 kilometers before San Carlo. By train, Agrigento Centrale station is about 70 km away. Furthermore, the Palermo airport is 80 kilometers from the Reserve.
