The Legend of Uomo Selvatico

Deep in the forests of the Italian Alps, the Uomo Selvatico roams alone. Known as the Wild Man, he is a creature of the old world — predating Christianity and surviving in tales whispered through the mountains. Some say he was once a man who fled society, others believe he is a spirit born of nature itself. Covered in thick hair or wrapped in animal hides, he lives off the land, drinking from streams and hunting wild game. He is often described as gruff but wise, capable of great strength and uncanny intuition about natural cycles. In some stories, he teaches herders to respect the mountains and punishes those who harm the forest. In others, he disappears for decades, only to return with warnings before great storms or avalanches. Though feared, the Uomo Selvatico is not inherently evil. He protects the wild places and those who treat them with reverence.

Warning to Travelers:
If you're hiking the Dolomites and hear strange whistling from the woods — stop. Turn back. The Uomo Selvatico doesn’t take kindly to intruders. Don’t litter, don’t shout, and for the love of all that’s sacred, don’t chop down a tree unless you’re ready to face him. He may not speak, but he remembers every offense.

Symbolism of the Uomo Selvatico:
The Uomo Selvatico embodies the raw, untamed spirit of nature — both nurturing and vengeful. He represents the ancient tension between civilization and wilderness, man and mountain, order and instinct. In a modern world that moves fast and consumes much, the Wild Man stands as a reminder: nature has its guardians, and not all of them are gentle.