Exploring the Majestic Beauty of Castelluccio and the Piano Grande Plain

Many years ago we were staying with friends in Umbria and we all went up into the Sibillini Mountains to visit the old town of Castellucio and the famous Piano Grande Plain.

You’ll find all this in the very heart of Italy. This enchanting and captivating locale offers a tranquil escape with its stunning landscapes.

The Village of Castelluccio: A Glimpse into Pastoral Elegance

Castelluccio, the highest settlement in the Apennines at over 1,450 meters, is a small village that epitomises rustic Italian charm. We were there way back in 2005 - just over a decade later, the area was badly hit by the terrible earthquake of 2016.

Despite this, the community's resilience shines through its ongoing restoration efforts, preserving its medieval allure. The village is famed not only for its scenic backdrop but also for its historical architecture, with the Church of Santa Maria Assunta standing as a solemn reminder of its rich past.

The Spectacular Piano Grande Plain

Castelluccio overlooks the breathtaking expanse of the Piano Grande plain. Spanning over 10 square miles, this rather unexpected plateau is a geological wonder, formed by ancient glacial and tectonic activity. The plain is almost completely surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Sibillini Mountains, creating a dramatic contrast with the flat valley floor.

A Seasonal Palette: The Fioritura Phenomenon

Visiting the Piano Grande in late spring and early summer unveils its most captivating spectacle: the Fioritura, or ‘the flowering’. This natural event sees the plain transform into a vibrant tapestry of colours. Fields of lentils, poppies, cornflowers, and other wildflowers bloom in a dazzling display that attracts visitors from across the globe.

The phenomenon is not only a feast for the eyes but also a crucial period for local farmers who cultivate the renowned Castelluccio lentils, prized for their unique taste and nutritional value.

Sibillini Mountains Fact File

Location: Central Italy, spanning the regions of Umbria and Marche.

Highest Peak: Monte Vettore, reaching an elevation of 2,476 meters.

Area Coverage: Part of the larger Apennines range, the Sibillini Mountains cover an area of about 70,000 hectares.

National Park: Established in 1993, the Monti Sibillini National Park encompasses much of the range, aiming to protect the area's biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism.

Geology: Characterized by karst topography, the mountains are composed mainly of limestone, leading to numerous caves, sinkholes, and disappearing streams.

Flora and Fauna: The area hosts diverse species, including the Apennine wolf, the Marsican brown bear, and a variety of orchids and other endemic plants.

Historical Significance: The name "Sibillini" derives from the legend of the Sibyl, a prophetess who, according to local folklore, inhabited caves within these mountains.

Popular Activities: The region is popular for hiking, mountaineering, and skiing in designated areas during the winter months.

Cultural Influence: The landscape has inspired numerous Italian poets and artists and remains a subject of local folklore and legends.

Accessibility: The area is accessible through various small towns and villages that serve as gateways for exploring the range, such as Norcia, Visso, and Castelluccio.