Cantalice
Introduction
Hello everyone! Today I want to talk to you about Cantalice, a beautiful town in the province of Rieti in Lazio, with a very interesting history!
Physical Geography
Territory
Cantalice is located on the slopes of the Monti Reatini and has a breathtaking view of the three lakes that are located in its territory: Lake Lungo, Lake Ripasottile, and Lake Ventina. These lakes, along with Lake Piediluco, are what remains of the ancient Lake Velino, which once covered the entire valley from Rieti to Piediluco. The Partial Nature Reserve of Lakes Lungo and Ripasottile is a perfect place for nature lovers, with trails that will take you around the lakes, we recommend bringing your camera to capture the local fauna.
Fauna
The waters of the lakes host many species of fish, including Scardinius, Cyprinus carpio, Esox lucius, and Anguilla anguilla, as well as amphibians such as the Crested newt and the Spotted newt. Along the shores of the lakes, it is possible to spot numerous aquatic birds such as the coot, the great crested grebe, the water hen, the little grebe, the little egret, and many more. In winter, many species of birds migrate to this area for the warm waters, among the most common are teal, mallard, and wigeon, just to name a few. Additionally, predatory raptors such as the Marsh harrier and the rare Osprey are also present in this area.
Flora
The vegetation along the shores of the lakes of Cantalice is a beauty to admire, especially to see the white or yellow water lilies that surround the perimeter of the lakes. You can also find numerous marshy forests, reed beds, and willows on which birds such as the river nightingale and the penduline tit nest.
Historical Curiosities
But Cantalice is not just a beautiful natural area, it is also a town with a long history. Until 1927, it was part of the province of L'Aquila, in Abruzzo, and for over 600 years it was an integral part of the Giustizierato d'Abruzzo and the province of Abruzzo Ultra II. Even today, you can see the influence that this province had on the city in its monuments, such as the Parish Church of San Pancrazio, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.
I hope that this information has convinced you to go and visit the beautiful Cantalice!
