The environmental field trip was one of the most meaningful moments of the Erasmus project. Students and teachers spent a day discovering the Mediterranean biodiversity and the natural beauty of the Palermo coastline, with activities taking place between Barcarello  and Isola delle Femmine. ​  

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The first part of the day took place along the panoramic trails of the Capo Gallo Nature Reserve, a protected area of great ecological value stretching between the villages of Sferracavallo and Mondello. ​

 

Here, the group explored a mosaic of coastal and marine habitats, including cliffs and rocky seabeds which host a rich variety of living organisms.

Mediterranean scrub dominates the terrestrial vegetation, with species such as tamarisks, myrtle, mastic and dwarf palms, all perfectly adapted to the dry, salty climate.

A particularly remarkable scientific feature is the presence of the “trottoir à vermeti”, rare limestone platforms formed over time by vermetid gastropods (Dendropoma petraeum) and calcareous algae. ​

 

These formations, similar to small coral reefs, represent ecosystems with very high biodiversity and are unique habitats today strongly threatened by climate change and coastal erosion.

During the walk, the group also visited the area known as Trullilandia, a picturesque and charming stretch of the Barcarello seafront, dotted with small stone trulli. ​

 

These traditional buildings, perfectly integrated into the landscape, offer an example of spontaneous architecture harmonized with the natural environment.

Following this, the group moved to the Marevivo Environmental Education Center located in the beautiful marine setting of Isola delle Femmine, another protected area of great environmental importance.

 

Students experienced an immersive virtual journey using 3D viewers, exploring the seabed and discovering the extraordinary richness of marine life. 

During the interactive environmental workshops, students deepened their knowledge of Mediterranean marine organisms: sharks, starfish, sea turtles, dolphins, Posidonia oceanica (a key marine plant essential for the ecosystem’s balance), and many other species that make this stretch of sea unique. ​

 

The activities also involved students from other local schools, enriching the experience through exchange and collaboration.

The Erasmus experience successfully achieved its educational and environmental objectives. Participants gained a deeper understanding of Mediterranean biodiversity, the importance of coastal and marine conservation and the unique ecological features of the Nature Reserve.

The hands-on activities and immersive virtual experiences fostered student engagement and curiosity, while the involvement of local students promoted intercultural exchange and collaborative learning.

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