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A valley with a small lake, a small natural waterfall—unique in Puglia—and numerous historical sites, from prehistory to the 10th century. A small paradise that many may not know, yet it lies within our territory. We're talking about the Gravina di Riggio, a place of great natural and historical value. A few kilometers from the city, the Gravina di Riggio is a deep valley characterized by a waterfall, a small lake, and a small stream, as well as numerous relics related to the phenomenon of "living in caves." Of particular note is "il Caggione," a circular chasm located near the waterfall. On its sheer walls, a cave village spread across three levels of caves is clearly visible. The remains of a fortification wall, some graffiti, and fragments of pottery date back to the Greek and Roman periods. Finally, the area was heavily inhabited during the Middle Ages, as evidenced by the two frescoed rock churches, the cenobitic hermitage, the pit burials, and a village with communal facilities such as water cisterns and a granary. The Gravina di Riggio rises 4 kilometers from Grottaglie, in the province of Taranto, and is a valley 1,300 meters long and 25 meters deep. In addition to being home to many animal and plant species, it is famous for its caves, some of natural origin, others man-made. The Gravina di Riggio is unique for its waterfall, which after a 15-meter drop feeds a small lake and a stream. The Church-Crypt of the Savior, with frescoes from the 10th and 11th centuries, is also beautiful. A special place not to be missed.

There is a beautiful pine forest to visit

A quick pass

Grottaglie is a town with a very interesting historic center. Don't miss the ceramics district

Grottaglie is a city in the province of Taranto with the particularity of being built on a limestone rock and with the surrounding area characterized by deep ravines that form spectacular caves. With its ceramic tradition, the city has an entire neighborhood and museum dedicated to this art.

A very suggestive Catholic place of worship in Gothic-Roman style.

For safety reasons, the Riggio ravine cannot be visited independently, since it is a private property to which access is forbidden, but it is possible to visit it during groups organized by Millenari di Puglia to be able to enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of these places safely and with the help of an expert guide.

Along the itinerary you will be able to discover secret passages that lead to fascinating panoramic caves and frescoed caves which preserve some of the oldest paintings in southern Italy, dating back to the 10th century AD, and in which it is still possible to read and admire some scenes of saints, Christian crucifixions and symbols. In rainy periods it is possible to observe a suggestive waterfall that descends into the ravine and collects the water in a small natural pool where the amphibians can find a place to reproduce