Gran Paradiso National Park, located in northwestern Italy, is a green gem in the Alps and one of Italy's oldest national parks.

The history of this park dates back to the mid-19th century when King Vittorio Emanuele II of Italy declared the area his private hunting reserve.

He realized that the population of the Alpine ibex was rapidly declining and implemented a series of protection measures to prohibit overhunting, laying the foundation for the future establishment of the park. 1922 the area was officially designated as a national park, covering over 70,000 hectares of vast mountainous terrain.

Gran Paradiso National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It is home to one of the unique ecosystems of the Alps, with a wide variety of wildlife. The most famous resident is the Alpine ibex, a symbol of Gran Paradiso. Thanks to strict protection efforts, the ibex population has recovered, and visitors to the park often have the chance to see these majestic animals grazing in the open alpine meadows.

In addition to the ibex, the park is home to many other mammals, including Alpine chamois, foxes, marmots, and hares. Marmots, in particular, are a common sight in the summer, scurrying across the meadows, delighting visitors. In the skies above the Alps, the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) soars majestically, and occasionally, the bearded vulture (Gypaetus barbatus), a critically endangered bird of prey, can also be spotted.

Plant diversity is another highlight of the park. At different altitudes, distinct plant communities thrive. Low-altitude coniferous forests, dominated by pines, spruces, and larches, provide shelter for many species. As the elevation rises, the forests gradually give way to alpine meadows and shrublands. In these meadows, visitors can find a variety of alpine flowers, such as edelweiss, gentian, and primroses.

Gran Paradiso National Park is not only a sanctuary for wildlife but also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a wide range of trails, from gentle mountain paths to challenging alpine routes. One of the most famous hiking routes is the ascent of Gran Paradiso Peak. As the only 4,000-meter peak entirely within Italy, it attracts numerous climbers eager to conquer it.

For those not seeking extreme adventure, the park's lower-altitude hiking trails and scenic viewpoints offer stunning glacier views and towering mountain landscapes. Additionally, the park's traditional stone huts—known as "Rifugio"—provide hikers with a cozy rest stop and an opportunity to learn about Alpine culture. These stone huts, with histories stretching back for centuries, serve as both cultural symbols and safe havens for mountaineers.

To ensure that the park's ecosystem remains unspoiled, park authorities have implemented various measures to promote sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to engage in "light-footed tourism," minimizing their environmental impact by "taking only photos, leaving only footprints." Moreover, some areas of the park are subject to strict visitor limits, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions, to ensure the environment's long-term sustainability.

Gran Paradiso National Park is not only a natural treasure of Italy but also a paradise for nature lovers worldwide. Its rich biodiversity, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and deep-rooted history and culture make it a destination that offers both educational and recreational value.

Here, humans and nature coexist harmoniously, and the majesty and serenity of the mountains leave every visitor profoundly moved. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deeper understanding of nature conservation, Gran Paradiso National Park is a must-visit destination.