Apuan Alps Regional Nature Park
Located in the Apuan Alps National Park, the Equi Terme Caves Geopark is an extraordinary karst area that offers a fascinating immersion into the underground world.
With its spectacular limestone formations, stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers, the site represents one of Tuscany’s most important geological wonders.
The geopark consists of a natural cave system formed over millions of years by the action of water on limestone rocks. The easily accessible Equi Caves are among the most famous in the region and offer tourist routes suitable for everyone, as well as caving itineraries for more experienced adventurers.
Noble white stone
Michelangelo already appreciated the beauty of the natural park: When he climbed Mount Altissimo in 1517 and came across a stone not far from the now-famous Carrara marble quarries, which fascinated him with its veining, uniformity, and crystalline texture, he was enthralled. The Italian sculptor used Carrara’s famous white marble to create works of art destined for eternity-for example, the marble statue of David in Florence or the Pièta in St. Peter’s Basilica are made from this precious stone. In addition to the Carrara quarries, there are many other quarries in the Apuan Alps National Park that can be visited as part of a guided excursion.
Fascinating caves
Another special feature of the reserve is the impressive subsurface it preserves: more than 1,300 caves are recorded. For those who want to learn more about one of Europe’s most important karst landscapes, we recommend visiting the Equi Terme Caves Geopark, which offers tourist caves, a museum, and many indoor and outdoor activities. Nature enthusiasts can get a comprehensive overview of the history, flora, and fauna of the Apuan Alps National Park by visiting one of the visitor centers, located, for example, in Seravezza and Massa. In addition, there is the opportunity to participate in various guided hikes.
Equi Terme Caves Geopark:
Visitor center in Seravezza, in the province of Lucca:
Visitor center in Massa, in the province of Massa-Carrara: