빌라 카스텔리 최고의 MTB 라이딩 경로

Passage on the SS 172 with a panoramic view

The scarecrows signal that we are almost at Villa Castelli

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.

This hydroelectric plant was once covered in tall pine trees (and still is today) to prevent it from being bombed during World War II. The area is known as "abbascj alla Centrel," and in the past, many people bathed in the canals built near the plant and running through the countryside; the water was fresh, clear, and drinkable. Unfortunately, the canals are poorly maintained, but this place continues to fascinate tourists and all those who come to visit, upon request, especially in May, if they wish to enter the plant. The Apulian Aqueduct Cycle Route has been open for several years next to the hydroelectric plant. This cycle route allows many bike and nature lovers to pedal, walk, and observe the many wonderful places of the Murgia, the Itria Valley, and Salento.

The Ulmo Pine Forest, featuring a picnic area equipped with wooden tables and benches, extends over approximately ten hectares in the Ceglie Messapica area, in the heart of the Itria Valley. It's the ideal place to spend a relaxing day with friends and family, sheltered by the shade of the Mediterranean scrub and dense Aleppo pine forest, or simply to take a break before continuing your exploration of the surrounding countryside and the nearby towns of the Itria Valley.

There are many ceramics workshops in the immediate vicinity. Despite the similarity in the motifs, the workshops usually have their own unique style. Today—off-season—the neighborhood was very quiet, and some shopkeepers took the time to explain some of the special features to us. It's worth stopping by the shops; you'll probably find something beautiful to take home.

Built in 1938 and erected in 1958, the Parish of San Michele Arcangelo is located in the small village of San Simone (Crispiano-TA). Behind it we find the chapel dedicated to Maria SS.ma del Carmelo built in 1649, as can be seen from the date engraved on the entrance architrave, together with the coat of arms IHS, Iesus Hominum Salvator, Jesus Savior of men. In ancient times it was dedicated to San Filippo Neri, depicted in the apse of the same chapel, next to the Virgin, to the right of the observer, because the entire farmhouse belonged to the homonymous farm, bordering the church. This farm was later called San Simini and still retains this name today. Due to its position in relation to the cow cart, the chapel suggests that in its time it served as a stop and reference point in the transhumance from the Murge towards Salento. The chapel consists of a single small room with barrel vaults and inside there are frescoes: the Virgin of Carmel with Child, on the left St. Thomas the Apostle and St. Michael the Archangel and St. Martin of Tours, on the right St. Philip Neri and St. Simon the Apostle. Above the entrance door stands a beautiful bell tower with a 19th-century bell.

The Figazzano bridge, dating back to 1910-1915, is located on the cycle path of the Apulian Aqueduct. It is a dirt road about 2 meters wide and about 200 meters long, bordered laterally by walls with iron railings. Crossing it you can enjoy the view of the cultivated fields and typical Trulli below.