| Description: |
The antiquity of the site (at 732 m) is proved by several traces of prehistoric human neolithic settlements. More reliable written records, however, inform us that by the XI century a much more antique castrum Flastrae had been standing out on Colle San Paolo and had became the geographical and political centre of a series of other defensive strongholds safeguarding the river Fiastrone’s upper valley. Due to the village’s strategic position, powerful families have always staked their claim to Fiastra, and the village was first ruled by the Malagotti family (some remains of their castle are still visible), then by Da Varano, Sforza and, eventually, by the Papal State. Its current popularity, however, is largely due its artificial lake formed by the building of a dam across the river Fiastrone made by Italy’s greatest electrical company. The lake has a somewhat elongated form and is set among a mountain landscape, thus creating a particularly evocative atmosphere.
The lake is provided with a beach and a camping site, and among the water sports which can be practised are fishing, rowing and sailing. The banks of the lake can be considered the starting point of a healthy nature path whose first stretch is fairly accessible also to wheelchair users. Its favourable position, within the boundaries of the National Park of the Sibillini Mountains, makes it possible to experience excursions both on foot and on mountain-bike. Fiastrone Gorges and the Cave of the Monks are among the most popular destinations. Quad excursions are also offered.
Text by Fabio Santilli
Translation by Gianfranco Martorano |