The WWF affiliated oasis of Castel Romano has been inaugurated

Inaugurated today during Earth Day week The WWF Affiliated Oasis of Castel Romano, the first in the capitalthe result of a three-year project carried out by the McArthurGlen Center in close collaboration with the environmental association.

The WWF affiliated oasis of Castel Romano: an idea born in 2002

The idea has its origins in 2002, when the Designer Outlet acquired the large green area adjacent to its parking area, in a state of abandonment and subject to illegal landfill.

After an initial reclamation phase, the great environmental value and the precious biodiversity characteristics of the area have led the company to propose an Affiliated Oasis project to WWF Italy. Then obtained thanks to a shared path of profound redevelopment.

Immerse yourself in nature

An important three-year investment, which saw the progressive reclamation of the area and a careful planting of new tree species typical of the Mediterranean scrub. Developed in agreement with Roma Natura, a regional body established to manage, protect and enhance the system of Protected Natural Areas of the Municipality of Rome. A gift to the city and to all visitorswhich from today have a magnificent area where you can immerse yourself in naturelearning to know it and respect it.

«The inauguration of the Affiliated Oasis of Castel Romano, which is part of our path to reach 30% of protected territory – also thanks to the fundamental contribution of private individuals, is a great satisfaction for us. Because in addition to having contributed to increasing local biodiversity, it is a unique opportunity to raise people’s awareness of respect for nature. And let them discover how crucial it is for our well-being”, he says Marco Galaverni, director of Oasis, Education and Activation of WWF Italy.

“A dream that comes true”

“A dream that comes true. Thanks to the commitment of our company, the expert guidance of WWF Italia and the trust of our investors. As a Group, we are committed to having a positive impact on the environment and the communities in which we are present,” he says Enrico Biancato, Center Manager of Castel Romano Designer Outlet. «We are proud to have contributed to returning a previously degraded area to the community. And which is now transformed and redeveloped with regenerated and accessible green spaces in which man and nature finally find harmony.”

Discovering the WWF affiliated Oasis of Castel Romano

The Oasis project – coordinated by the landscape design studio OSA and created by Assiverde on commission from McArthur Glen and WWF Italy – offers today 1,500 meters of paths in the Mediterranean scrub forest. As well as trekking routes with 5,000 new shrubs planted. Among the latter are native trees, such as oaks and holm oaks, shrubs such as arbutus, hawthorn and aromatic honey plants.

In the area, also thanks to the large panoramic binoculars placed on the observatory, it is possible to observe species from a respectful distance wildlife. Like foxes, porcupines and birds of prey like the kestrel and the black kite. As well as many species of birds such as the spotted woodpecker and the jay.

In wet areas around the permanent pond it is possible to encounter an important variety of amphibian species (frogs, toads, tortoises, as well as reptiles and wild flora). As well as colorful (and strictly protected) orchids.

The hives of the Oasis – each of which hosts 50,000 bees – are destined to produce around 100 kg of honey per year. Soon available for visitors.

For families, a large and equipped one natural playground – with a journey of the senses, game of the large log, spider’s web and swing – and three pleasant ones picnic areas for moments of relaxation. Special lunch boxes are available at all the restaurants in the Center to enjoy lunch comfortably in the Oasis.

The Oasis is open every day from 9am until sunset with free access. Starting from Earth Day weekend (April 20-21), reservations are available every Saturday and Sunday guided tours, educational workshops led by WWF guides. The Oasis is available for school visits upon reservation.

All the information on the new website dedicated to the WWF Affiliated Oasis of Castel Romano mcarthurglen.it/castelromano/oasi.