Things to see · Parks and nature reserves
San Giuliano Lake Regional Reserve
Grottole (Matera)
San Giuliano Lake Regional Reserve is in Grottole, province of Matera. Opening hours: Natural area; for guided visits ask the WWF. Admission: To be checked with the managing body.
- To be checked with the managing body.
- Natural area; for guided visits ask the WWF.
About this place
The San Giuliano regional reserve protects the lake created in the 1950s by the dam on the river Bradano, within the territories of Miglionico, Grottole and Matera. Covering around 1,000 hectares, it is one of the most important wetlands in Basilicata.
History
The lake was declared a wildlife protection area in 1976 and since 1989 it has been managed by the WWF Italia. Today it is a nature reserve and a site of community importance, and since 2003 it has been part of the wetlands of international importance. There are also numerous archaeological sites along the shores, from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
What to see
• Waterbirds: great white egrets, purple herons, cormorants, wigeons, teals and white storks.
• The Bradano gorge and the stretch of river that flows into the lake.
• The Mediterranean scrub with mastic (lentisco), juniper, wild pear (perastro) and downy oak (roverella).
• Mammals, such as foxes, badgers, porcupines, wild boars and otters.
Useful information
• The best times for birdwatching are spring and autumn, during the migration periods.
• It’s a good idea to bring binoculars and respect access restrictions in the most protected areas.
• Nearby are the Malconsiglio castle in Miglionico and the Sichinulfo castle in Grottole.
