Top 7 Caves around San Marzano Di San Giuseppe

Trail recommended for expert hikers due to the presence of stepped differences in height.

800 meters long and up to 40 meters deep, it is rich in spontaneous vegetation consisting of Mediterranean scrub, olive trees, oaks and carob trees. Like many blades dug by water in the karst rocks, this one has also been shaped by men over the centuries. In fact, there is a rock settlement consisting of numerous caves dug into the rock along the slopes of the blade, used at least until the 13th century. The settlement, in addition to the dwellings in the caves arranged on several levels, also included three rock churches and a cistern for collecting water. On the northern slope, the church of Saints Peter and Paul, dating back to the 6th-7th century, is still recognizable, further expanded with wall structures in the 16th century and dedicated to San Pietro dei Giudei. The Fullonese name of the locality probably derives from the trade of tanners and dyers practiced by a small colony of Jews, exiles following the destruction of Oria in 977, who in this place, due to the abundance of water and natural pools, found ideal conditions for settling.

West of the urban center of Grottaglie, at the foot of Mount Fellone, stands the Lama del Fullonese, a ravine full of caves dug into the rock that were once used as a refuge by man since the Paleolithic. Here a Jewish community from Oria, fleeing from the brutal Saracen raids of the late 10th century, found refuge and all the elements necessary to continue the artisanal activity of tanning leather. From a naturalistic point of view, the Fullonese is a set of different habitats with a biodiversity sensitive to the various microclimates present that leaves visitors amazed by the colors and scents. If in the area, I recommend you stop by 😉

The Fonte Pliniano is still one of the symbols of the city (it is also represented in the city coat of arms);[8] almost certainly dating back to the Messapian era,[8] it was described by Pliny the Elder (from whom it subsequently took its name)[9] in his Naturalis Historia. It is a well located inside a natural cave 18 metres in diameter[8] and 8 metres wide[8] which can be reached by going down 20 steps dug into the rock.[8] A square skylight opens on the vault of the cave, a cylindrical structure from which an almond tree emerges (according to centuries-old legend)[9] from which the light necessary to illuminate the room penetrates. Water from an underground aquifer flows perpetually from the well and the adjacent basin.[8] In ancient times the Fonte Pliniano was also used as a place of worship for a Messapian deity

Wonderfully restored archaeological park. The night visit is spectacular! Not to be missed

A very suggestive experience that I recommend. It is possible to visit the park of the Messapian walls and the Plinian source with a very prepared guide who made this tour very interesting. The park has been renovated and restored and it is beautiful to be able to admire so much culture and history.

Stunning and relaxing landscape, excellent for going as a couple to have a bit of relaxation. Very green and excellent to visit

Stunning and relaxing landscape, excellent for going as a couple to have a relaxing time. Very green and excellent to visit