The Gravine in Puglia: The Grand Canyons of Europe

Hello everyone! I am Michele, Personal Concierge at BeBari Apartments in Bari, and today I am taking you to discover one of the most fascinating points of interest in Puglia: the gravine. Starting from BeBari Apartments (where you have free parking available, so you can move around at your best) getting to the Gravine area will be a pleasant trip. The gravine, with their almost lunar charm, are one of the most distinctive elements of the Apulian landscape. These deep natural incisions in the calcareous ground, similar to canyons, meander through the region offering a spectacle that combines history, nature, and culture. Over time, these fascinating terrestrial furrows have attracted the attention not only of tourists but also of historians and enthusiasts of archaeology and nature, becoming a true symbol of some areas of Puglia.

1. How were the gravine formed?

The gravine are the result of millennia-old erosive processes. The water, flowing over lands predominantly composed of limestone, has carved these deep gorges over time, some of which reach depths of up to 100 meters. The particularity of these erosive phenomena lies in their ability to create unique environments, where the flora and fauna have adapted to survive in often extreme conditions, developing rich and varied ecosystems.

• Natural Origins and Human Use: The gravina was mainly formed by the erosion of rivers that, sculpting the limestone, created a deep canyon. Over time, these natural caves have been used by local inhabitants for various purposes, from dwellings to food preservation, eventually becoming places of worship.
• Ancient and Medieval History: Ancient neighborhoods were made up of dwellings carved into the rock overlooking the gravina. These rock dwellings have been occupied since prehistoric times. During the Middle Ages, the gravine continued to be an important resource for the city, providing refuge and a place of worship, as evidenced by the numerous rock churches decorated with Byzantine and medieval frescoes.
• Ecological Importance: Besides its historical and cultural value, the gravine also serve as an important natural habitat that hosts a rich biodiversity. The flora and fauna of the canyon include many species that have adapted to live in such a unique and isolated environment.

Exploring the gravine thus offers a dive into history, culture, and nature, making it an unforgettable destination for anyone interested in the historical and natural heritage of Southern Italy.

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Un post condiviso da Veronica Verde, hiking guide 👣 (@the.green.donkey)

2. What is the largest gravina in Europe?

The Gravina of Laterza (province of Taranto) is often cited as one of the largest and deepest gravine in Europe. This gravina stretches for about 12 kilometers and reaches a maximum depth of about 200 meters.

3. Where are the gravine located?

If you are wondering where the gravine are located in Italy, then you are in the right place. Among the most well-known municipalities in Puglia for the presence of gravine, we find:

• Laterza: as just mentioned, the Laterza gravina is the largest in the territory.
• Ginosa: The gravina of Ginosa is famous for its numerous caves inhabited since prehistory. Today, it is a fascinating place for hiking, with the opportunity to explore ancient rock settlements and enjoy breathtaking views of the rocky walls.
• Gravina di Matera: This gravina partially surrounds the city of Matera, famous for its Sassi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gravina contributes to the unique charm of the city with its rupestrian landscape and the rock churches that overlook the precipice.
• Gravina di Massafra: This gravina carves the landscape around the city of Massafra, offering spectacular views and an almost mystical atmosphere. The rock churches and monasteries carved into its walls are of great historical and cultural interest.
• Gravina in Puglia: This city gives its name to the Gravina of Puglia, one of the most spectacular in the region. The local gravina separates the old part of the city from the more modern one and has played a crucial role in the history and economy of the city over the centuries.
• Altamura: Known for its PDO bread, Altamura is also famous for its gravine, which offer nature trails of considerable landscape and historical interest. The surroundings of Altamura are a reference point for hikers who wish to explore these ancient landscapes.
• Gravina of Castellaneta: Located near the city of Castellaneta, this gravina is deep and rich in vegetation, offering an extraordinary contrast with the more arid surrounding landscape. It is a perfect place for nature walks and bird watching.

Each gravina has its unique character and offers different activities, from hiking to guided tours, to simple contemplation of nature. Exploring the gravine of Puglia allows you to immerse yourself in a less known but incredibly fascinating aspect of Italy.

4. Tourism and Conservation

The gravine offer numerous opportunities for sustainable tourism. Hiking trails, guided tours, birdwatching activities, and simple walks are just some of the activities you can engage in. Moreover, the growing awareness of the importance of conserving these unique environments has led to the implementation of projects to protect and enhance the gravine, not only as tourist attractions but also as important ecological and historical sites.

5. Come and Explore 🙂

The gravine of Puglia represent an invaluable heritage. Not only do they shape the landscape in a unique way, but they also tell stories of times gone by, hosting traces of prehistoric and medieval human settlements. Visiting the gravine of Puglia means embarking on a journey through time, where every path can reveal ancient secrets and breathtaking panoramas. We look forward to seeing you at BeBari Apartments in Bari to give you tips on these and other itineraries to discover the most authentic aspects of Puglia 🙂 See you soon!