Nature Reserve of Lakes Lungo and Ripasottile

The nature reserve of the Lakes Lungo and Ripasottile is a protected area of regional value located in the province of Rieti, in the territories of Rieti, Cantalice, Colli sul Velino, Contigliano, Poggio Bustone and Rivodutri. Lake Lungo (or Cantalice) and Lake Ripasottile are the remains of a large lake that once covered much of the Rieti Plain: the Lake Velino, partially drained by the ancient Romans who created a breach in the surrounding mountains that made water outflow, giving rise to the Marmore waterfall. The Protected Area, overlooked by Monte Terminillo, is surrounded by reed beds and hygrophilous wood, and represents the ideal place for birdwatching that, especially in winter and during the migratory passes, hosts a large number of birds.