Sustainable Development in the Geopark Through Biodiversity and Local History
since 1992
A Geopark in Mendrisiotto
The Mendrisiotto region boasts a significant geological heritage—recognized internationally through the UNESCO Monte San Giorgio Fossil Site and Switzerland’s first geopark, the Parco delle Gole della Breggia. This heritage is complemented by a rich biodiversity (e.g., dry meadows, endemic and endangered species) in places such as Monte Caslano, Monte Generoso, and Monte San Giorgio.
Social and industrial history also shapes the region—for example, through the historic gold mines in Malcantone or the extraction of oil shale on Monte San Giorgio. Paleontological finds, such as those in the Bear Cave on Monte Generoso, are providing new impetus for tourism.
The planned geopark brings together an impressive network of cultural and natural attractions: several nature trails, visitor centers, museums, protected areas, and numerous organizations dedicated to preserving and promoting this heritage. The region’s food and wine culture also contributes to sustainable development.
Gruppo Parchi del Mendrisiotto consists of:
- Parco Valle della Motta,
- Breggia Gorge Park,
- Penz Park
- Laveggio Park
Offers
- 6 geological trails and 4 nature trails,
- 3 visitor centers, a cantonal natural history museum, and a paleontological museum,
- 12 nature parks and protected areas,
- 15 Art Museums
International Significance
In addition to its unique transnational UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region boasts a fascinating geodiversity with great potential, including:
- The gold mines of Malcantone, which formed a mining district around 1800
- Paleontological Excavations in the Karst Bear Cave on Monte Generoso
- The underground facilities of a cement quarry, as well as factories and artisan workshops in the Breggia Gorge
“QUOTE XX”
Markus Felber
Geologist, XX