Timpa di San Lorenzo

Timpa di San Lorenzo (5,413ft / 1,652m) is surely the most impressive limestone rock face of the Pollino massif and probably among the most interesting of the southern Apennine mountains. Its very characteristic shape is that of a fossilized wave. Its crest is about 4 km long, its vertical western rock face drops away for almost 2,800ft to meet the gorge of the Raganello torrent. Comparatively bare and next to vertical, the west face stands in a sharp contrast to the less-steeper and in some parts heavily vegetated east slope. 

While the west face is strictly reserved for more experienced rock climbers (with the appropriate equipment), the east face will give an interesting playground for scrambling enthusiasts. A particularity of the east slope are the so-called 'lisci' (from the Italian word liscio = slick, smooth). The 'lisci' are almost uncreased limestone slabs. They can be of various size and might form an extensive maze. Although rarely exceeding an inclination of 50 degree they should be treated with utmost caution, as useful hand and footholds can become increasingly rare during an ascent or descent. Those few visible fissures are not seldom filled with loose dirt and overgrown by cunning moss and grass, making them virtually impracticable and potentially dangerous. Although inclination and exposure are not excessive, these areas are not to be underestimated, especially when wet.

Other obstacles are the ubiquitous scree ramps and large spots of prickled thicket formed by low-growing hawthorn and oak trees. The actual crest line shows numerous rifts and gashes and allows great views of vast beech forests and some of the highest peaks of the Pollino massif: Serra Dolcedorme, Monte Pollino, Serra di Crispo and the impressive east face of Serra delle Ciavole. In a southern direction the view goes on the Gulf of Corigliano (or Gulf of Sibari). A heap of rocks marks the highest point.

There are basically two trailheads to mention: Sant'Anna, a rural chapel to the north, and the wide base of the east slope of the mountain, a location named Barile. Other great rocks in close vicinity to Timpa di San Lorenzo are the almost pyramidal Timpa della Falconara (to the north) or the rutted Timpa di Porace and Timpa di Cassano (to the south). In order to reach the base of the west face you will have to descend to the bed of the Raganello torrent. A not easily discernable hiking path starts right behind the small chappel and descends south-eastern direction. Pass the cliffs on the left and hold to the escarpment of the east face.