Majella

Majella is a massif in the central Apennines of Italy, located in the Abruzzo region. It spans parts of the provinces of Pescara, L'Aquila, and Chieti. The highest point is Monte Amaro, approximately 2,800 meters above sea level. The range is composed largely of limestone and dolostone, with rugged cliffs, gorges, and karst features. The Majella is the core of Parco Nazionale della Majella, established in 1995 to protect its habitats, landscapes, and cultural heritage.

The park encompasses a range of environments from high-altitude meadows to beech forests and rocky screes. It hosts diverse flora and fauna typical of the central Apennines, including chamois and the Apennine wolf, as well as numerous bird species such as raptors and songbirds. Winter snow and a cold climate at higher elevations contrast with milder conditions at lower slopes.

Human settlement is concentrated around the foothills, with historic villages, monasteries, and spa towns integrated into the cultural landscape. The area is known for hiking, climbing, and winter sports, with marked trails and viewpoints. A notable landmark is Rocca Calascio, a medieval fortress that overlooks the Maiella region and is a symbol of its historical landscape.

The name Majella is of uncertain origin. The protected area and associated activities aim to conserve geological features, biodiversity, and traditional rural land use while supporting sustainable tourism and education about the region’s natural and cultural heritage.