The underground tunnels of Gravina, carved by man into the limestone of the region, are a distinctive feature of the historical landscape of Gravina in Puglia. These subterranean passageways, created for various purposes over the centuries, are living testimonials of the engineering techniques and needs of the populations that have inhabited the area. There is no exact publicly available number specifying how many underground tunnels there are exactly, as many of them are still unexplored or not fully mapped. The complexity and extent of these tunnels contribute to the historical and archaeological allure of Gravina di Puglia, making it an intriguing destination for history and urban exploration enthusiasts.

Origins and Functions of the Underground Tunnels of Gravina

The underground tunnels of Gravina di Puglia were constructed and expanded over the centuries for various purposes, and their construction reflects the historical techniques and needs of the time.

• Material Extraction: The limestone on which Gravina is built was ideal for building, so many of the original tunnels and caverns were excavated as quarries. Workers extracted stones for building structures on the surface.
• Conservation and Storage: The tunnels provided a cool and constant environment that was perfect for storing food and wine. This aspect was essential in an era without refrigeration, as it helped maintain supplies during the hot months and preserve food resources during famines or sieges.
• Refuges and Escape Routes: During periods of invasion or conflict, the tunnels provided a safe refuge for the local population. Additionally, they were used as escape routes in case of attacks, allowing inhabitants to move secretly and safely.
• Water Collection: Some tunnels were used to collect and channel water, functioning as part of complex water systems that provided drinking water and for irrigation.
• Rituals and Burials: It is possible that some areas of the tunnels were used for religious purposes or as burial sites, although this use may vary greatly depending on the specific regions and historical periods.
• Construction of the Underground Tunnels of Gravina

The construction of these tunnels was a labor-intensive task that required deep knowledge of the terrain and excavation techniques. The inhabitants of Gravina used manual tools like picks and chisels to dig the soft rock, a process that gradually changed over time based on technological advancements and the availability of new tools.

4. Other Points of Interest and What to See in Gravina di Puglia

Here are some of the must-see attractions during your visit to Gravina:

• The Aqueduct Bridge: This ancient bridge crosses the canyon and offers a spectacular view of the Gravina and the Sassi. It is a historic structure that demonstrates the ingenuity of the ancient inhabitants of the area.
• The Rupestrian Church of San Michele delle Grotte: One of the most famous rock-hewn churches in the area, with well-preserved frescoes and a fascinating history.
• The Ettore Pomarici Santomasi Foundation Museum: A museum that collects archaeological artifacts, works of art, and historical documents that tell the rich history of Gravina and the surrounding region.
• The Swabian Castle: This medieval castle, located on a hill overlooking the canyon, offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding areas.
• The Old Town: The winding streets of Gravina’s historic center are ideal for peaceful walks, where you can discover hidden corners, ancient churches, and traditional homes.

5. What Typical Food to Eat in Gravina?

The cuisine of Gravina reflects the Puglian traditions, with rustic dishes and genuine flavors. Here are some of the specialties you should try:

• ‘u Callariedde: ‘U Callariedde is made from a sweet shortcrust pastry, which is cut into strips and then braided or rolled to create various shapes, including the most common circles and braids. The distinctive feature of this sweet is its filling, typically made of chopped almonds, honey, cinnamon, and cloves, offering a rich and aromatic flavor.
• DOP Bread: A bread famous for its crispy crust and soft interior, made with local hard wheat. It is perfect to pair with cheeses and cured meats.
• Grano Arso Focaccia: A typical Pugliese focaccia prepared with grano arso flour, which is the toasted wheat remaining after the harvest. This flour gives the focaccia a unique and distinctive flavor.
• Oven-Baked Lamb with Potatoes: Lamb is a popular ingredient in Gravina’s cuisine, often baked in the oven with aromatic herbs and served with potatoes.
• Grano Arso Puccia: Another use of grano arso is in puccia, a type of soft sandwich that can be filled with various ingredients such as mozzarella, tomatoes, arugula, and raw or cooked ham.
• Fava Beans and Chicory: A simple combination of fava bean puree and sautéed chicory, seasoned with extra virgin olive oil.

These dishes offer an authentic taste of the culinary traditions of Gravina and Puglia, combining local ingredients with traditional recipes.

6. Natural Points of Interest Near Gravina for Hiking and Trekking Enthusiasts

Gravina and its surroundings offer various opportunities for hiking and trekking. Here are some places that nature lovers will appreciate:

• Alta Murgia National Park: A natural park that stretches for kilometers, with unique landscapes, caves, and archaeological remains. It is a perfect place for hiking and nature walks.
• Castellana Caves: Located about an hour’s drive from Gravina, these caves are among the most impressive karst systems in Italy, with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.

7. How to Get to Gravina

Gravina is easily accessible from Bari by car or train:

• By car from Bari: Taking the A14 highway and then the SS96, the journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, through the landscapes of Puglia.
• By train from Bari: Several trains connect Bari to Gravina, with travel times ranging from 1 hour to 1 hour and a half, depending on the service.

8. Curiosities about Gravina: Movie Set

Gravina di Puglia, with its picturesque landscape and fascinating historical sites, has attracted the attention of various film directors. The city and its surroundings have been used as a set for several films, thanks to their unique and picturesque atmosphere. Here are some of the films that have been shot in Gravina di Puglia: “The Passion of the Christ” (2004) – This film directed by Mel Gibson, which tells the last hours of Jesus’ life, utilized the ancient and picturesque structures of Gravina to depict some scenes of ancient Jerusalem. “Ben-Hur” (2016) – The film version of “Ben-Hur” directed by Timur Bekmambetov used the historic streets and landscapes of Gravina to recreate the historical setting of the film, contributing to bringing the epic story to life. “Wonder Woman” (2017) – Some scenes of this popular superhero film were shot in Gravina, where the city provided a perfect backdrop that helped create the film’s atmosphere, rich in action and adventure. “Pinocchio” (2019) – Matteo Garrone’s film, based on the classic tale by Carlo Collodi, used the picturesque locations of Gravina for some of its fairy-tale scenes, taking advantage of the magical atmosphere that the city can offer. “007: No Time To Die” (2021) – James Bond’s latest adventure, starring Daniel Craig, includes spectacular scenes shot in Matera and Gravina di Puglia. The natural and architectural scenery provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s thrilling action scenes. The choice of Gravina di Puglia as a film location highlights the beauty and versatility of its landscapes and architecture, capable of transporting the viewer back in time or to fantastic places, making it an ideal destination for impactful film productions.

9. Have a Great Trip!

At BeBari Apartments in Bari, we are always available to provide all the necessary information for exploring Gravina and other gems of Puglia. We look forward to helping you organize your visit and enjoy this extraordinary region to the fullest. See you soon at BeBari Apartments! 🙂