The Mercadante forest covers 1,300 hectares, most of which is located in the territory of Cassano delle Murge, while the remainder is in the territory of Altamura. It was created to defend Bari from the recurring flood disasters caused by the mouth of the Picone torrent, which today no longer exists because it has been diverted and the pre-existing marshy area replaced with the creation of the forest. The varieties of plants planted range from alpensis pines, maritime pines, common cypresses, holm oaks, etc. The oldest are 40 to 60 years old. However, we can state, with complete serenity, that the ‘Mercadante’ forest road is the road to well-being for all those who joyfully tread it in order to be able to breathe a little pure air in a serene and pleasant environment, which is indispensable for restoring strength worn out by daily stress.