Municipality of Castiglion Fibocchi
Piazza Municipio, 1 - 52029 Castiglion Fibocchi (AR)
Tel: +39 0575 1686
Fax: 0575 47516
E-mail: segreteria@comune.castiglionfibocchi.ar.it
PEC: c.castiglionfibocchi@postacert.toscana.it
Tax Code and VAT 00284440518
VALLE DELL’INFERNO AND BANDELLA NATURE RESERVE
In the heart of the Valdarno lies a surprising haven of nature and biodiversity. In this stretch of the Arno River, between the Ponte del Romito and the Ponte dell’Acqua Borra, the river changes character, unveiling a landscape of exceptional ecological value and scenic beauty. This area is protected by the Valle dell’Inferno and Bandella Nature Reserve.
Between Myths and Place Names
Despite its richness and vitality, the name of this valley—“Valley of Hell”—evokes somber imagery. According to legend, it was here that Dante Alighieri met Charon, the ferryman of souls, inspiring a passage of the Divine Comedy. Another story attributes the name to the challenges once faced by boatmen who navigated the Arno’s wild and turbulent waters to transport timber toward Florence and Pisa, fearing the untamed nature of this stretch of river.
The construction of the Levane Dam in the 1950s radically transformed the river, taming its once unruly flow. The reservoir created by the dam also gave rise to the Bandella Oxbow, a wetland area that has since become an oasis for many bird species and a valuable natural habitat.
A Mosaic of Natural Environments
The Valle dell’Inferno hosts a wide variety of ecosystems—from oak forests clinging to rocky slopes, to watercourses and marshlands teeming with life despite their quiet appearance.
These diverse habitats are home to a rich array of species, especially birds. Among them are the grey heron, purple heron, little egret, kingfisher, great crested grebe, black-winged stilt, and black-crowned night heron. Overhead, one might spot black kites, marsh harriers, and common buzzards. The forests shelter roe deer, wild boar, foxes, hares, porcupines, and even a rare amphibian—the spectacled salamander (Salamandrina perspicillata).
An Ideal Spot for Outdoor Recreation
The reserve is a perfect destination for birdwatching, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors. Numerous trails wind through woods and countryside, ideal for peaceful walks or bike rides amid the natural beauty of the reserve.
