At the tip of the Marina di Ascea coastline, in the Baia Tirrena area, lies a site of extraordinary natural value known as the Genista cilentina SCI site. This stretch of coastline, commonly referred to as ‘Scogliera’, is a veritable open-air laboratory where geology, biodiversity and landscape come together in a unique harmony.

From a geomorphological perspective, the area is particularly interesting as it forms the base of the Cilento Flysch sequence, a geological formation characterised by dark limestone alternating with schist, i.e. layered rocks that flake easily. Studied and classified since the 1960s as the S. Venere or Ascea Formation, this structure tells the story of millions of years of the area’s evolution, making the site of great interest to scholars and geology enthusiasts alike.

Covering approximately 5.39 hectares, the SCI site was recognised in 1995 as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) under the European Habitats Directive, becoming part of the Natura 2000 network, and was subsequently designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in 2019. This recognition testifies to the importance of the area for the protection of the habitats and species that find refuge there.

Biodiversity is one of the most fascinating aspects of the site. Protected bird species include the European turtle dove, the western honey buzzard, the song thrush, the common quail and the red-backed shrike, whilst among the mammals, two species of bat stand out: the greater horseshoe bat and the lesser horseshoe bat. The Mediterranean whipsnake, a large non-venomous snake and a symbol of Mediterranean fauna, is also present.

The vegetation is typical of the Mediterranean scrub, lush and fragrant, but amongst the sand dunes a particularly precious presence stands out: the sea lily, a protected endemic species that helps stabilise the soil and combat coastal erosion. With its pure white flowers blooming in summer, it has become one of the most iconic symbols of Ascea.

Visiting the SIC Station at Genista Cilentina means immersing oneself in an unspoilt environment, where nature expresses itself in all its power and delicacy. It is a perfect place for those who love wild landscapes, biodiversity and silence, far from the most crowded tourist routes, yet rich in charm and scientific value.

Foto di Francesco Maraucci