Padule di Fucecchio (marshland)

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The Padule di Fucecchio (Fucecchio Marshland) is the most important inland wetland in Italy, situated astride the provinces of Florence and Pistoia.
The significant value of the Padule also lies in its proximity to other zones of particular environmental interest such as the Montalbano countryside, the Cerbaie hills and Sibolla Lake.
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Il Padule di Fucecchio Osservatorio Faunistico The Padule also preserves the fascination of historical events linked to the Medici and Lorena families. Evidence of human endeavour can still be found in the area, conveying the important role the wetlands played in the past in the local economy: the canals, the system of ports, the sites of industrial archaeology such as the tobacco drying plant and Capannone farm, and the Bridge of Cappiano.

In terms of flora, the Padule has a number of particularly interesting features, such as plants typical of warm climates living in association with plants of Nordic origin. Over the centuries, the marsh grasses that grow here have been used for the traditional handicrafts of weaving and caning, which can still be found in the artisan fabric of the zone.
As regards fauna, the best and most interesting period for birdwatching is during the spring. Being situated between the Apennine mountains and the Tyrrhenian coast, the Padule provides a temporary home to some two hundred species of migratory birds. The colonies of the Padule include herons, night herons, little egrets, and the rare squacco heron. Also worthy of note is the presence of the marsh harrier, numerous duck species, a family of swans, and interesting migratory birds such as black-winged stilt and osprey. cicogne_di_fucecchio

Within the Padule there are nine nature trails for walking, preferably during the springtime.
The Centre for Research, Documentation, and Promotion of the Padule di Fucecchio organises environmental education workshops for children and youth, as well as providing guided visits to the wetlands for both youngsters and adults.
Every month an interesting calendar of events is proposed along with a report on life within Padule, information that can be found on the dedicated site

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