The Montetiffi Alto Uso SCI is a protected natural area located in Emilia-Romagna and recognized by the European Union as a Site of Community Interest (SCI). It is part of the Natura 2000 network, a system of areas intended for the conservation of biodiversity, with the aim of protecting natural habitats and animal and plant species of particular value. The area covers about 1,387 hectares and includes a hilly territory typical of the Romagna Apennines, characterized by natural environments that are still well preserved and not very urbanized. Among these are clayey gullies, cliffs, gorges, woods and pastures. This environmental diversity favours the presence of numerous habitats, some of which are considered rare or priority at European level.

The importance of the Montetiffi Alto Uso SCI lies in its high biodiversity and the presence of rare habitats. The protection of this area is essential for the conservation of species and for the maintenance of natural balances, it was also established to ensure the survival of Zerynthia polyxena, known in Italian as apolline or aristolochia butterfly, a rare butterfly that reproduces here and represents an important indicator of the quality of the natural environment.

The area, due to its marginal geographical position and scarce anthropization, is preserved from disfiguring exploitation and offers one of the most intact natural aspects for its morphological and geological peculiarities.

The most famous naturalistic point is the area of the Marmitte dei Giganti, crossed by the “Romanesque Bridge.

The area is also appreciated for its remarkable fauna and vegetation and is also characterized by settlements with significant historical-architectural and environmental peculiarities such as the Borgo di Pietra dell’Uso and the Villas of Montetiffi and for the historical settlement emergencies present: Romanesque Bridge, Molino Tornani, Abbey of Montetiffi and adjacent Canonica now home to the “Venanzio Reali Museum”.

In 2024, the area of the Romanesque Bridge and Marmitte dei Giganti officially became “Place of Belsentire” (https://www.luoghidelbelsentire.it/), a project that enhances and designates places of aesthetic and/or tourist attraction characterized by particular beauty and where you can enjoy particular listening due to the vastness, the rarity of all or some sounds, permanently or in certain and marked circumstances.

The vegetation is very rich and includes forests of downy oak, holm oak, juniper, manna ash and elm. There are also arid grasslands and riparian areas along watercourses, which further contribute to the biodiversity of the area.

The area is home to numerous animal species of community interest. Among the mammals, the presence of the Apennine wolf stands out, a symbol of the wildlife of the Apennines. There are also roe deer, wild boars and foxes.

Also very important is the presence of several species of protected bats, which find refuge in the natural cavities and historic buildings of the area. Among the birds of prey are birds of prey such as the peregrine falcon, as well as nocturnal species such as owls and barn owls.

In conclusion, the Montetiffi Alto Uso SCI represents a significant example of a well-preserved natural environment in the Romagna Apennines. Its protection is essential to ensure the preservation of biodiversity and to allow future generations to know and appreciate this natural heritage.

The SIC Montetiffi Alto Uso is an ideal place for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. There are several paths that allow you to explore the area, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism.