The main feature of the Reserve is a plateau reaching a height of 80 meters and degrading then to the level of the River Tiber, over a series of small hills. The presence of vegetation depends on the main agricultural use of the soil, on a thick network of ditches and of the river Tiber, and on the surrounding urban areas of the town. The Valley enters the urban area from south-west and forms a green wedge-shaped area linking the large alluvial plains to the town center, across Villa Pamphili and Gianicolo. Many areas are used for agricultural purposes and as pastures. In the areas which have not been exploited, a semi-natural condition has been maintained, with Oaks, Maples, Brooms, and Buckthorns. Among the most important animal species, the four-lined snake, the Barn owl, the hedgehog, and the weasel. As far as local historical features are concerned, the most interesting aspect is represented by the articulated villas and farmsteads system. Of great interest, the 17th century Villa York.
