WWF “Grotte del Bussento” Nature Reserve

The WWF “Grotte del Bussento” Nature Reserve, covering an area of 607 hectares, is a wildlife sanctuary established in 1995 and subject to landscape and hydrogeological protection measures — recognized even by UNESCO, which included it in the prestigious Network of Biosphere Reserves (MAB Program; 1997) — and by the European and Global Geoparks Network (2010).

The Middle-Eastern Bussento geosite is, in fact, one of the most fascinating river systems in the entire geopark, where the river’s erosive force has carved out a system of gorges that constitutes the second-largest karst phenomenon on the peninsula by area and the longest in southern Italy.

In Morigerati, in particular, the resurgence of the Bussento River gives rise to a deep and striking canyon, which harbors a natural habitat of rare and protected flora and fauna — including a moss community of great importance due to its size and several species listed on national and international conservation lists (Habitat Directive, CITES, IUCN Red List) such as the wildcat (Felis sylvestris), the wolf (Canis lupus), the marten (Martes martes), the polecat (Mustela putorius), and the otter (Lutra lutra).

The WWF Oasis is managed by the “Morgete” association — composed entirely of women from Morigerati — and is home to the village’s historic watermill, which has recently been restored and is now operational.