Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cornalvo Natural Park is located in the region of Extremadura, near the city of Mérida, Spain. It covers a landscape that features a striking mix of Mediterranean scrubland, oak woodlands, and open water habitats centered around the Cornalvo Reservoir, which was formed by a Roman-era dam still in use today. Established as a protected natural park, it preserves a mosaic of dry, rocky hills and wetlands that support a rich biodiversity, including numerous bird species such as griffon vultures, storks, and eagles. The park's historical significance is enhanced by the Roman dam — one of the oldest functioning dams in Europe — highlighting the area's importance in ancient times as a water supply for Roman Mérida. Visitors enjoy a variety of outdoor recreations including hiking through well-marked trails passing through cork oak groves and Mediterranean forests, birdwatching, and photography. Several viewpoints offer panoramic panoramas of the reservoir and surrounding countryside. The park’s generally mild climate and quiet, natural setting make it an attractive day-trip destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Conservation efforts focus on protecting endangered wildlife and maintaining the delicate balance between human activity and natural preservation.
