Parco regionale dell'Appia Antica - AREA CAFFARELLA
Rome, Italy
Parco Appia - Area Caffarella - regional protected area
Parco Della Caffarella is a 220-hectare “green wedge” that connects the historic center of Rome to the Appia Antica and Castelli Romani. It is a unique landscape where history and nature converge, featuring the Almone River, ancient Roman ruins, and active rural life like sheep grazing. The area is part of the “Sentiero dell’Acqua” (Water Trail), highlighting a history of local springs and rivers once used for agriculture. It is managed by the Ente Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica with support from the Casa del Parco and various local foundations.
PARK INFO
- Access: Free, 24/7
- Type of Park: Regional Protected Area (Largest urban protected area in Europe)
- Size: 220 hectares
- Governance: Managed by Ente Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica (Director: Dott. Enrico Maria Guarneri); supported by Servizio Giardini, Casa del Parco, and Fondazione Gerini
Accessibility & Facilities
- The entrance on Via della Caffarella (Via Appia Antica side) is the most accessible. Other entrances have steep slopes challenging for those with reduced mobility.
- Bike Rental: Available at the Information Point.
- Toilets: Located at the Casa del Parco and the former mill (available during opening hours).
- Drinking Water: Fountains located near the Church of Sant’Urbano and Casa del Parco.
- Picnic & BBQ: Picnic tables at the Casa del Parco and former mill; designated barbecue areas accessible from Via Carlo de Bildt
Protection Status
- Regional Protected Area under Ente Parco Regionale dell’Appia Antica.
- Conserves the “rural escape” character of the Roman countryside.
- Historical Points of Interest: Tomb of Annia Regilla, Nymphaeum of Egeria, Church of Sant’Urbano, and the Monumental Cistern.
- Protects the Almone River ecosystem and vital urban ecological networks.
Educational & Community Value
Educational Activities:
- Environmental education workshops, guided excursions, and educational gardens.
- Information point: Casa del Parco / Casale Villa Cardinali, managed by the ‘Humus’ Onlus Cultural Association
Community & Recreation:
- Cultural events including book presentations, concerts, open-air cinema, and festivals.
- Extensive paths for walking, running, and biking.
- Children’s garden and outdoor gym equipment.
- Opportunities to observe traditional Roman countryside activities like sheep grazing.
Biodiversity & Natural Features
Flora:
- Over 500 species identified.
- Key Species: Mastic tree, terebinth, phillyrea, water orchid, shielded buttercup, and oak groves (cork and holm oaks).Fauna:
- Sacred Woods: Ancient plantings originally established by Romans along the Appian Way.
Fauna:
- High diversity with 89 bird species, 17 mammals, 13 reptiles, 6 amphibians, and 3 fish species.
- Mammals: Fox, weasel, hedgehog, mole, and recently reintroduced hare and wild rabbit.
- Birds: Black kite, grey heron, bee-eater, and lesser spotted woodpecker.
Ecological Importance:
- Acts as the most important biological corridor bringing natural elements into Rome’s urban center.
Map of the park
Gallery
