The Biosphere Reserve covers an area of 3,060 hectares and features a zoning system divided into 5 areas:
MARINE CORE ZONE
Marine Core Zone of 30 hectares, corresponding to the fully protected zone of the Miramare Marine Protected Area, managed by WWF Italy under the mandate of the Ministry of the Environment. This zone operates under a strict protection regime, prohibiting all sea activities except for research and environmental education conducted by the WWF staff.
MARINE BUFFER ZONE
Marine Buffer Zone of 90 hectares, surrounding the core zone, established by the Port Authority of Trieste, where only professional fishing and anchoring are prohibited.
TERRESTRIAL BUFFER ZONE
Terrestrial Buffer Zone of 35 hectares, corresponding to the Miramare State Park, managed by the Historical Museum and Park of Miramare Castle. This area serves as a green lung at the city’s doorstep, combining historical and cultural significance with its role as a major tourist attraction in the region.
MARINE TRANSITION ZONE
Marine Transition Zone, a biological protection zone established by the Ministry of Agriculture, spanning from Santa Croce to Barcola, covering approximately 1,500 hectares. Here, artisanal fishing and extensive mollusk farming allow for the sustainable use of marine resources.
TERRESTRIAL TRANSITION ZONE
Terrestrial Transition Zone, located on the Karst ridge between the municipalities of Trieste and Duino Aurisina, totaling about 1,400 hectares. It includes two Natura 2000 sites (protecting remnants of the Karst heath) and the three small villages of Santa Croce, Prosecco, and Contovello, historically inhabited by the Slovenian minority. The Karst slopes, covered with forests and Mediterranean scrub, feature “pastini” — terraces cultivated with vines and olive trees, enclosed by dry stone walls, a result of ancient craftsmanship.
