Sila (Italy)

This biosphere reserve in Southern Italy extends over an area of 357,294 hectares. The site is host to approximately 1000 vascular plant species and over 210 species of vertebrate. The site’s plant diversity has earned it global recognition. The 230,000 permanent residents live mostly from agriculture, although eco-tourism has been playing an increasing role in the local economy in recent years, attracting over 500,000 visitors a year.