Isola Polvese

Isola Polvese or Polvese Island is an island situated in the southeastern part of Lake Trasimeno, in the Umbria region of Italy. It is the largest of the three islands of the lake. The island belongs to the Province of Perugia and is known as a Scientific-Didactic Park, which is part of the Trasimeno Regional Park. The island is administrated by Castiglione del Lago.

Isola Polvese Polvese Island - Centre of Environmental Experience

History

The island was visited by the Etruscans and the Romans. In the Middle Ages, the inhabitants submitted to Perugia. During that period, churches and a castle were erected to protect and defend the village. Monks of the Benedictine and Dominican orders were present on the island. In 1841, the island became private property and was used as a hunting area. In 1973, the Province of Perugia acquired Polvese Island and in 1974 was declared a wildlife protection oasis.[1]

Monuments

Among the monuments of the island are the church of Saint Giuliano and Saint Secondo, the Olivetans’ Monastery, and the Medieval Castle. The Garden of Aquatic Plants was realised in 1959 by the architect Pietro Porcinai.

Landscape

In the northern part, oak woodland covers the island with many plant varieties, typically of the Mediterranean area, such as holm and ash trees. In the lower woods, trees like guelder rose, laurel, ilex, and privet can be found. The southern area is covered by centuries-old olive trees. An extensive reed thicket that runs from the east to the south defines the humid region. The walkways and the interior of the island are characterised by rosemary hedges and pomegranates, while ornamental plants and trees are found everywhere over the meadows. The natural environs support a rich fauna of invertebrates, especially insects. Among the vertebrates, there are the fox, the marten, the hare, and a wide variety of birds, particularly those that inhabit humid climates such as coots, ducks, and herons.

Activities

The island today is managed sustainably. The Polvese Island was declared by the Province of Perugia as a “scientific-educational park” dedicated to environmental education, didactic experimentation, scientific, naturalistic and anthropological research.[2]

Structures & services
  • Great hall and Laboratory
  • Punto Verde – Information
  • Environmental Education Operators
  • Umbria Mobilità – Public Boat Service

References
  1. "Umbria Tourism: Fortress of Polvese Island". Umbria Tourism. 13 October 2023. Retrieved 13 October 2023.
  2. "Isola Polvese". Umbria For Family. Retrieved 2023-10-13.

43°07′N 12°09′E



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