21. Apparent discrepancy

Once you have passed the natural monument of Preda Longa, proceeding north in the direction of the lentisk wood, you come across a small natural depression known by the ancient name of Badde Neulotha. According to some authors, the origin of the toponym from neula refers to the frequent presence of banks of fog. Contrary to what one would expect to find near the top of a rocky relief, the vegetation present testifies to an abundant presence of water. The expanse of Polygonum scoparium is the most eloquent proof of this. The Polygonum is an endemic plant with a discontinuous and limited distribution typical of ponds and marshes. During the autumn and winter, the abundant rains make this small plateau a wetland of extraordinary naturalistic interest. The conformation of the territory, combined with the action of the imposing roots of the forest, retain water in the soil, helping to create a unique and apparently discordant environment with the rocky and fairly arid context that surrounds it. As often happens, nature teaches us the rules through exceptions.

Coordinates of the photographed site: 40°26'59"N 9°35'08"E