An ophiolitic complex of immense grandeur rises in the wild Val Vezzeno. Here the ancient Celts carved their sacrificial altar. Thousands of years later, Charlemagne gave permission to Bishop Julian II to build his castrum (fort), now known as Gropparello Castle.
A steep path falls along the ravine by the stream. It is immersed in a flourishing vegetation of considerable botanical significance. Thanks to the particular micro-climate offered by the combination of the “warm” green rock and the humidity of the Vezzeno stream, the Iceland lichen, carob tree and Scots pine share this environment.
Here, in the company of a nature guide, the children can follow the tracks and trails of wild animals. Immersed in the intense greenery, they can further their knowledge of Creation and the evolution of plants and animals in territory that featured in the shifting of the Earth’s plates and the withdrawal of the oceans. Fossil remains were left behind, as well as a panorama still to this day unspoiled and rich in “Adamitic” atmosphere able to re-wake in all of us a strong sensation of equilibrium between Man and Nature. The setting favours environmental education, with the introduction of the first concepts associated with “sustainable development”.
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The ophiolite sequence: the shifting of the earth plates.
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Mosses and lichens: biological indicators.
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Environment with high biodiversity: carob tree and Scots pine in the same wood.
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“Humid” woodland environment: micro-particles of water and their influence on the woodland plants.
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Mixed woodland: mutual habitation and integration of plants with different characteristics and requirements.
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The sub-woodland stratum, with species protected by the Emilia Romagna Region: Gropparello is a secret treasure-trove of threatened plants.
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The water cycle: from rainfall, to rivulets and to the stream.
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Tracks denoting the movement of wild animals: every day we discover who has slept here.
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The cave: first refuge of pre-historic man.
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Piacentian fossils.
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Evolution of algae: ferns – algae that walk on land.
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Plants and their legends.
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Interaction between animals and the vegetal environment in daily life.
Although the level of difficulty of the route is low, it is advisable to wear mountaineering boots and comfortable clothes suitable for an excursion and to carry binoculars and, eventually, a compass and camera. A waterproof jacket should be worn in the event of rain.
For classes who so wish, it is possible to have an additional lesson in the classroom (on prior request).
