Milano Marittima is a charming destination for family vacations along the Italian Adriatic coast. In addition to enjoying beach activities and fun in the sun, a visit to the Butterflies House is a must-see for families on holiday in this area.
Although it’s raining outside, a beautiful photo on my Facebook wall reminds me that spring is just around the corner. Alessandro, a family friend, posted the picture with the caption: “The first butterfly of the year,” which warmed my heart.
Alessandro has a profound passion for butterflies, so no one appreciates the beauty of spring quite like he does. Reading his words transported me back to last year when we visited the House of Butterflies in Milano Marittima, right on the Adriatic Coast. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by a vibrant world filled with colors.
At least once in their lives, every child has attempted to catch a butterfly. Even as adults, we find ourselves captivated by their mesmerizing and colorful dance. Unfortunately, it can be challenging for both kids and adults to observe a butterfly quietly for an extended period, at a close distance.
What? Did you not know that butterflies have a proboscis?
Well then, you simply must visit the Butterflies House!!
It’s a 500 square meter greenhouse, featuring delightful food stations to nourish dozens of butterflies from India, Africa, Australia, and South America. Trust me: this House is a fantastic place to learn about the most beautiful and entertaining insects on the planet!
Butterflies: a micro-universe to be discovered
Did you know that the round spots found on some butterflies’ wings are fake eyes designed to scare predators? The real eyes are much smaller and composed of thousands of tiny lenses that give these insects an extensive field of view.
Butterflies use their antennas to smell, while their proboscis allows them to reach sweet nectar.
The proboscis can stretch to match the entire length of the butterfly’s body. When not in use, it is coiled up, always ready to extend when a new sugary treat appears!
Their enemies include birds, bats, and lizards. To evade being eaten, butterflies have developed numerous survival strategies. Camouflage is one such tactic! Some butterflies mimic plants, while others have wings that resemble dead leaves. Additionally, some species possess an unpleasant taste, strong odor, or even toxicity.
Some butterflies are even more clever: they are not poisonous but use camouflage to mimic those that are! Some caterpillars have even evolved to resemble bird droppings. Yes, you read that right! Isn’t that smart? I bet birds won’t touch them!
How long do these fascinating creatures live? Some butterflies live just a few days, while others can last up to 18 months. Sadly, many spend significant time in hibernation or must migrate over 6,000 kilometers to find warmer climates.
And do you know what happens if you touch their wings???
Please don’t tell me you believe in that ‘magic dust’ nonsense!
Metamorphosis and the first flight
Inside the greenhouse, visitors can observe vibrant butterflies alongside less attractive caterpillars.
You can also peek into the nursery, where the pupae (the stage between caterpillar and butterfly) hang upside-down. Every Sunday morning at 11 a.m., you can witness the first flight of newborn butterflies. This mesmerizing event alone makes the trip to Milano Marittima worthwhile!
On other days, knowledgeable staff will walk you through the fascinating process of metamorphosis, explaining each stage from egg to caterpillar and then from pupa to butterfly. For specific days and times, please check the House’s website.
What we like about the Butterflies House
The Butterflies House is a treasure trove of ideas, especially those designed for kids. These activities must be booked in advance, and guides are available in English, German, French, or Spanish.
Good to know:
- How to get there: Take Highway A14, exit at Ravenna; then proceed along State Road S.S. 16 towards Milano Marittima and follow the signs to “Casa Delle Farfalle & Co.”
- Opening hours: The Butterflies House is open from March to November every year.
In March and October: open every day (except Monday) from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM.
In April, May, and September: open every day (except Monday) from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM.
In June, July, and August: open every day from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM. - Tickets: €11.00 for adults; free for children under 1 meter tall; €9.00 for children up to 12 years old. Workshops and activities must be booked in advance; check their website for details on programs and costs.
- Kids’ facilities: Educational workshops, birthday parties, gazebos, green areas, and a fantastic bookstore offering a wide selection of games and books for children.
- Nearby: Hotel Valverde in Cesenatico. This family-friendly hotel offers excellent facilities for children. If you prefer accommodation in Milano Marittima, a comprehensive list of hotels is available.
Booking and information
Casa delle Farfalle & Co.
Via Jelenia Gora 6/d, Milano Marittima – Ravenna – Emilia Romagna
Postal code: 48015
Tel: 0544 995671 Fax: 0544 998308
Website: www.atlantide.net/casadellefarfalle
Email: casadellefarfalle@atlantide.net
