Discover Gradara and Mount San Bartolo Park through guided tours and nature hikes between history, literature, and breathtaking landscapes. We will journey from the double ring of walls of the medieval village of Gradara—immortalized by Dante Alighieri in the Divine Comedy—to the scenic cliffs of Mount San Bartolo, overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
GRADARA GUIDED TOUR
Gradara is one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval fortified villages, crowned by its majestic fortress (Rocca Malatestiana). Stepping through its ancient gates means entering the tragic and romantic tale of Paolo and Francesca, immortalized by Dante in Canto V of the Inferno. Guided by expert storytelling, we will walk along the fortified walls and explore the rooms of the Castle, which witnessed the lives and intrigues of noble families such as the Malatesta, Sforza, and Della Rovere. The tour includes the interior of the fortress, the historic center, and scenic viewpoints offering broad vistas over the surrounding hills and the nearby coast.
THE LANDSCAPES OF MOUNT SAN BARTOLO PARK: NATURE, ART, AND HISTORY
Our itinerary begins with a splendid view over the sea and the cliffs below—an ideal viewpoint to discuss the importance of Mount San Bartolo Park for migratory bird routes and the rich marine ecosystem below. We continue uphill toward the lighthouse and, shortly after, reach the Cenobio di San Bartolo. Here, a true journey through time awaits us: we will discover the origin of the park’s name and enter a treasure trove of art and beauty dating back to Roman times. Resuming our walk, we will enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Villa Imperiale and the Apennines. Continuing along our loop trail, we immerse ourselves alternately in woodlands and the park’s traditional rural landscape to discover the diverse plant and animal species that inhabit it.
CASTLES WALK IN MOUNT SAN BARTOLO PARK AND PALEONTOLOGICAL MUSEUM
We set off from Fiorenzuola di Focara, an exquisitely preserved ancient castle village, to discover its history and visit the Paleontological Museum, where fossils help us visualize the landscape as it was millions of years ago. We continue along the walls toward Casteldimezzo, walk through the castle grounds, and proceed up to the Tetto del Mondo (“Roof of the World”). From here, our descent toward the Via Flaminia begins, taking us along trails through woods and cultivated fields to Colombarone. Along the way, we will uncover the various ecosystems of Mount San Bartolo Regional Park and its millennium-old history. Following a short uphill stretch, our path brings us back to the castle of Fiorenzuola di Focara.
TREASURE HUNT: “VALBRUNA AND THE TREASURES OF MOUNT SAN BARTOLO REGIONAL PARK” IN FIORENZUOLA DI FOCARA
Set within the backdrop of Mount San Bartolo Regional Park lies Fiorenzuola di Focara, where the adventure begins! Equipped with a map and compass, students (divided into small teams) will navigate through the narrow alleys of the small castle village, discovering at each stop the hidden treasures of mysterious Valbruna. It is a fun, engaging way to explore the natural and historical features of Mount San Bartolo Park. Depending on the time available, this activity can be paired with a trek to Casteldimezzo Castle or down to Fiorenzuola beach to appreciate the diverse landscapes and interconnected ecosystems offered by Mount San Bartolo Park.