Roads have played an important role in human history since the beginning of civilization. Some of the oldest roads in the world date back thousands of years and offer valuable insights into the development of ancient societies.

One of the most interesting examples is the Nature Highway in Piedmont, Italy.

The Nature Highway, also known as the Strada Romana delle Valli di Lanzo, is a Roman road that dates back to the 1st century AD. The road is located in the Piedmont region of Italy and runs through the Lanzo Valleys, which are located in the northwestern part of the region. The road is considered to be one of the most important and well-preserved examples of Roman road building in the world.

The Nature Highway was originally built as a road to connect the city of Turin, which was the capital of the Roman province of Alpes Cottiae, with the Alpine passes that led to Gaul. The road was also used for commercial purposes, as it connected the city of Turin with the mining districts of the Lanzo Valleys.

The road was built using the most advanced techniques of the time, including cuttings and embankments, and was paved with large blocks of stone.

The Nature Highway is characterized by its winding route, which follows the contours of the land and is designed to minimize the gradient of the road. The road passes through some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Italy, including deep valleys, rushing streams, and towering mountains. The road is lined with ancient trees, and the air is filled with the scent of wildflowers and herbs.

The Nature Highway is also notable for its many archaeological remains, which include Roman bridges, milestones, and inscriptions. These remains offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who built and used the road. The road was used continuously until the Middle Ages when it fell into disuse and was largely forgotten.

In the 19th century, the Nature Highway was rediscovered by archaeologists and antiquarians who recognized its historical and cultural significance. The road was gradually restored and opened to the public, and today it is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and history buffs. The road is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is protected by Italian law.

The Nature Highway is just one example of the many ancient roads that still exist in the world today. These roads offer important insights into the history and development of ancient societies, and they continue to inspire and fascinate people from all over the world. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or nature, there is something to discover on these ancient roads.