At the southern entrance to Montenero di Bisaccia, in the locality of “Le Lame” near the church of Maria Santissima di Bisaccia, lies the striking Calanchi Nature Park. This unique place is also home to an extraordinary rock sanctuary carved into the rock.
Calanques are fascinating formations created by the erosion of varicolored clays, which interrupt the gentle hilly landscape sloping down to the sea. In Montenero di Bisaccia, their extension and spectacularity have made possible the creation of a real park, where nature and history intertwine.
The route, easily accessible from the church, offers a short but intense walk through unspoiled nature, with breathtaking views of the town. The route leads up to an imposing sandstone block that holds the Grotta della Madonna, an ancient formation that, thanks to natural erosion, reveals numerous marine fossils dating back 5-10 million years.
The Calanchi Park is a true treasure chest of biodiversity. Despite its apparent aridity, this environment is home to numerous species of wildlife: badgers, hedgehogs, hares, wild boars, and a rich avifauna composed of Montagu’s Harrier, Red Kite, owls, and barn owls. Prominent among the plants are gorse, hawthorns, blackthorns, wild roses, wild artichokes and perasters. In spring, the landscape lights up with vibrant colors ranging from yellow to pink, providing a natural spectacle of rare beauty.
The park, which can be visited free of charge all year round, is an ideal place for those who love to immerse themselves in nature and history also frequented by schools for its historical and naturalistic richness.
The Calanchi di Montenero di Bisaccia Park is therefore much more than just a place to visit: it is an invitation to discover the wonder of our past, respect the present and protect the future.