Subasio Mortari

Went out early yesterday to explore three mortari (singular: mortaro) atop Monte Subasio. They are called "mortari" because they are shaped similar to mortar vessels. They are not craters and are perhaps best described as karst sinkholes.
The weather forecast was good, but part way up the mountain all was not clear.

Eventually I entered the clouds, but this time it was warmer and less windy than on a recent high trek.

Shortly after reaching the summit, the clouds cleared.

First came Mortaro delle Trosce, not as obvious as the other two because it sits in a forest, and it can be difficult to see the mortaro through the trees.

In the distance was the summit of Monte Subasio.

Some pretty wildflowers were starting to appear in the high country, this one in the middle of a muddy path.

Next came Mortaro Grande. Approaching from a distance, one can see the trees on the upper part of it on the right.

Here it is closer, shaped like a very, very large mortar vessel

A closer look at the inside, where stone artists have created a message of peace ("pace", pronounced pah-chay, is "peace" in Italian) along with a heart.

The third mortaro, Mortaiolo, is just over a ridge from Mortaro Grande and is quite steep.

Here's a view looking over Mortaiolo and Mortaro Grande.

Atop the above picture is the summit of Mount Civitelle. Since it was so close, I decided to go on up. Once there I found no marker, and only this rock was at the high point.

So, on to the summit.

The hike down was a pleasant trek involving exploring sections of different trails. At one point a horse came bolting around a corner and stopped sharply when he saw me (for which I was appreciative, being on the same path). He immediately became docile, almost shy, turning away and standing quietly.

Saw occasional hikers in the high country, another sign of Spring.
Ciao.