The Karst region has lots of traces of ancient human settlements including the man-made Karstic ponds (lined with clay to make them waterproof) and the Castelliere di Monrupino, the largest Karstic prehistoric settlement and fortified medieval town.

The work of nature is also well represented on the plateau, for example in the enchanting Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), with its stalagmites and stalactites and the original skeleton of the Ursus Spelaeus, the largest mammal to inhabit the caves.

The most important palaeontology discoveries made in Trieste’s Karst area are hosted in the Museum of Natural History of Trieste. These include Mesolithic finds – found in the Grotta Azzurra (Blue Cave), used during the First World War by Austro-Hungarian troops as a shelter and a fresh water reserve – dating back to the Iron Age and the remains of “Antonio” the Hadrosaurid, found at the Villaggio del Pescatore.

Another interesting museum is the Science Centre Immaginario Scientifico (IS) in Grignano, an innovative museum and a great place to learn the secrets of science.

Interactive itineraries, multi-visions, enchanting visits to the planetary system, courses and workshops in a space in which science becomes fun and one rule is imperative: “It is forbidden not to touch”.

Not far from the IS, is the Natural Marine Reserve of Miramare, managed by WWF: 30 hectares of protected area that stretch 200 m from coast, the natural habitat of many tiny little animals!

Option to arrange activities and workshops on the beaches of the reserve and at sea, with flippers, masks and snorkels!