Gravina in Puglia is located about 60 km from Bari. It can be reached by car or by train on the Bari-Matera route.
The name Gravina in Puglia comes from the word "gravina", which refers to the ravine that cuts through the landscape of Puglia. It was on its steep slopes that settlements were established in ancient times. The town grew up around a deep gorge where the inhabitants built cave houses and churches, as in nearby Matera.
What to do and see in Gravina in Puglia?
The biggest local attraction is the 17th-century stone bridge Ponte Acquedotto, which connects the two banks of the ravine. This bridge also served as a movie set in the Bond film No Time to Die.
Be sure to visit the historic centre. The narrow streets, stone houses and the Romanesque Cathedral of San Michele Arcangelo create the atmosphere of an ancient city.
Beneath the historic centre of Gravina lies a vast underground labyrinth. There are cave dwellings, wine and oil warehouses, old water cisterns and secret escape passages. The locals have been building the underground for centuries and to this day it has not been explored in its entirety. There are also churches excavated in the rock, such as San Michele delle Grotte.
Last but not least, we recommend visiting Rocca del Garagnone - near Gravina are the ruins of a medieval castle, which is ideal for history buffs and hikers.
Gravina on a plate
Lunch in Gravina in Puglia is an experience in itself. Treat yourself to homemade orecchiette with tomatoes and ricotta, or typical grilled meat from local farms. This is accompanied by a glass of Gravina DOC, a local white wine that has been produced here since Roman times. If you have time, stop for a tasting at one of the family-run wineries.
Gravina in Puglia is a lesser-known alternative to touristy Matera, but offers an equally fascinating combination of cliff dwellings, history and dramatic landscapes. If you're looking for an authentic place away from the crowds, Gravina will not disappoint.
