Environment: Zingaretti , 4 new natural monuments in Latium
Rome - The President of the Latium Region, Nicola Zingaretti, signed four decrees proposed by Councilor for the Environment Mauro Buschini to establish four new natural monuments. The areas are worthy of protection for the elements of natural beauty and historical-archaeological value which significantly define the landscape and environment of the sites. The four new natural monuments join the current 29 which are part of the 83 Protected Natural Areas in Latium. The total protected surface amounts to 230,664 hectares, which is about 13.5% of the territory of the region. "The four new natural monuments protect areas of outstanding historical and natural interest, which represent the history of our community and must be protected at all costs", explained the President of the Latium Region, Nicola Zingaretti. "Our region has a vocation of environmental and cultural sustainability that we intend to consolidate, promote and safeguard as common wealth, also by creating new protected natural areas". The first natural monument is "La Frasca", established in the area of Civitavecchia and Tarquinia across the provinces of Rome and Viterbo. With an extension of 73.77 hectares, the area is one of outstanding natural and historical-archaeological importance, characterized by a coastal forest environment and the presence of 45 bird species of particular interest. The ancient Roman port of Columna and an ancient villa are within the area of the new natural monument. The area will be managed by the Latium Regional Authorities. The second natural monument is that of "Valloni della via Francigena", near Capranica in the province of Viterbo. It covers 104.79 hectares and will be managed by the municipal local authorities. The protected area is over two valleys and is characterized by many different tree species as a result of the particular morphology of the ground. The woods on the summit of Monte Terenzio, near the country church of the same name dating back to the 1500s, feature tall holm-oak trees and natural water springs. The third national monument is "Aquinum" near Castrocielo in the province of Frosinone. It covers about 132 hectares and is home to the "Capo d'acqua di Aquino" springs. It is characterized by outstanding geo-diversity and the impressive archaeological remains of the ancient city of Aquinum. The fourth national monument is "Pyrgi" near Santa Marinella within the Metropolitan area of the City of Rome. Covering approximately 67.65 hectares, the area is one of outstanding natural and historical-archaeological interest with a coastal stretch and a vegetation habitat which is very rare in Latium.