Laurel forest, also called laurisilva or laurissilva, is a type of subtropical forest found in areas with high humidity and relatively stable, mild temperatures. The forest is characterized by broadleaf tree species with evergreen, glossy and elongated leaves, known as "laurophyll" or "lauroid".

Dec 2, 2010 · The Laurisilva of Madeira is an outstanding relict of a previously widespread laurel forest type. It is the largest surviving area of laurel forest and is believed to be 90% primary forest. It contains a unique suite of plants and animals, including many endemic species such as the Madeiran long-toed pigeon.

UNESCO World Heritage since 1999, the Laurissilva forest is a unique natural treasure. Walk along the trails and 'levadas' that cross it and enjoy the privilege of being connected to this green area of Madeira. Features: A 20-million-year-old subtropical rainforest, the Laurissilva forest dates back to the Tertiary Age.

The Laurisilva of Madeira (Portuguese: Floresta Laurissilva da Madeira) is a natural place declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999. [1] It is considered a very valuable relic, due to its size and quality, of the laurisilva, a type of laurel forest that was very abundant in the past and is practically extinct today.

Laurissilva is characterized by evergreen trees with glossy leaves, and trees in the laurel family (Lauraceae) are prominent. The laurissilva is similar to the ancient subtropical forests of the Mediterranean Basin, prior to its climate cooling and drying during the ice ages.

Feb 28, 2025 · Humid, evergreen Laurisilva once covered much of southern Europe, but the forest, named for its numerous Laurel species, is now limited to the Canary Islands, Azores and Madeira, which has the largest remaining old growth tracts.

The UNESCO Laurisilva Forest in Madeira is a captivating natural wonder, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. From its fascinating history to the unique species that inhabit its landscapes, there is much to discover and …

Jul 11, 2024 · Visit Madeira to see the island's ancient Laurisilva Forest famous for its unique collection of plants and animals and many endemic species.

The Laurisilva of Madeira is the largest surviving relict of a virtually extinct laurel forest type once widespread in Europe. It is still 90% primary forest and is a centre of plant diversity, containing a unique suite of rare and relict plants and animals, especially endemic bryophytes, ferns, vascular plants, animals such as the Madeiran ...

The Laurisilva of Madeira is a relict of a previously widespread laurel forest type, that is important for biodiversity conservation. This primary laurel forest within the Parque Natural da Madeira holds evergreen trees and bushes in very steep valleys.