Known for its scenic beauty, for the presence of important historical and naturalistic elements and for the medieval bridge that seems to be the one depicted in the background of Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”
The Regional Natural Reserve of Ponte Buriano and Penna is a Tuscan landscape rich in biodiversity and with a strong connection to history.
It extends for about 7 km in length along the Arno, from the Romanesque bridge of Ponte Buriano to the power plant located downstream of the Enel Penna dam and includes the artificial reservoir of the dam and the surrounding land areas.
Ponte a Buriano
This medieval bridge is one of the most famous symbols of the reserve. It crosses the Arno River and offers a spectacular panoramic view.
Curiosity
Built in the 13th century, the bridge is at the center of a dispute because it is believed to be the depicted by Leonardo da Vinci in the background of the “Mona Lisa” while other studies give for certain that it is instead the Romito Bridge of Pergine Valdarno (Ar).
However, some experts have advanced other hypotheses regarding the bridge depicted in the “Mona Lisa”, suggesting that it could be an imaginary bridge or a combination of elements taken from different places.
Despite these discussions, the Buriano Bridge remains one of the most accredited interpretations and has contributed to making this bridge a very popular tourist attraction.
This is another area of the reserve, characterized by unspoiled nature and hiking trails that allow you to explore the local flora and fauna. The area is ideal for those who love trekking and nature photography.
A perfect area for hiking: from the Ponte a Buriano Visitor Center several paths start to reach the reed bed or the birdwatching huts.
Large green spaces and woods for walking. Accessible paths for an area of about seven kilometers along the bed of the Arno, from the Romanesque bridge of Ponte Buriano to the Penna dam. A trek to reconnect with nature and find the right inspiration.
The plant landscape consists of downy oak and Turkey oak woods and a large marshy area in the eastern portion of the Reserve.
Among the nesting birds, there are rare species such as the Grebe and the Little Bittern.
The area, which forms an integrated system with the nearby Valle dell’Inferno and Bandella Provincial Nature Reserve, is of considerable interest for the stopover of aquatic birds such as the Cormorant, the Great White Heron and the Osprey.
Ponte Buriano Location
Civitella in Val di Chiana (Arezzo)
Tuscany – Italy
What to do see where to go in the province in the surroundings near places to visit Attractions Woods Pine forests Natural Parks Curiosities Excursions Itineraries Walks