The ravines are deep rock erosions formed by the corrosive action of old watercourses that flowed from the Murgia plateau towards the sea. Unlike the lame, they appear as narrow and deep rocky gorges, real canyons with a “V” profile. Inside them it is possible to find small streams, which can become abundant during heavy rainfall. The vertical walls of the ravines, with their cave systems, show traces of human presence from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
In Laterza there is the largest European canyon, declared a protected natural oasis. This corner of Puglia is characterized by tranquility and breathtaking beauty. The Gravine area represents an important natural heritage, characterized by a unique landscape of ravines and canyons, which offers habitats to a variety of plant and animal species. Its classification as a site of community importance underlines the ecological importance of the area, contributing to the conservation of biodiversity. The management of the area by the Province of Taranto and the integration with the Terra delle Gravine Regional Natural Park allow for more effective protection and the promotion of sustainable activities, attracting visitors interested in nature and local culture.
In Grottaglie the ravines reach depths of about 40 meters and are dotted with several medieval crypts. The Gravina di Riggio is the deepest and most renowned and hosts a small waterfall called Cascata di Riggio.
In Mottola, the Petruscio ravine presents a network of communicating caves. Among these, the crypt of San Nicola and other rock churches represent unique evidence of the ancient human presence within these rock formations.
The ravine of San Marco in Massafra divides the town in two and is known as the Italian Thebaid for its abundance of caves. Here you can find crypts dedicated to the conservation of medicinal herbs and churches such as Santa Marina, San Marco and the Cripta della Candelora.
In Ginosa, the ravine surrounds the historic center with two series of cave settlements, between the Casale and Rivolta districts. The Casale district is known as a universe of stone, damaged by the 1857 earthquake but which preserves churches such as San Vito, Santa Domenica and San Leonardo. The Rivolta district is a troglodyte village with 66 caves divided into five floors, connected by a network of stairs and paths, and is home to the churches of Santa Barbara and Santa Sofia.
The Gravina di Castellaneta is a wonderful geological formation and extends for about ten kilometers reaching a maximum depth of 145 meters, with steep and almost vertical walls. It is a place rich in history, with traces of archaeological settlements and rock caves.
Geographically, the ravine begins near the Renella railway bridge, northwest of Castellaneta, and heads south, where it joins other ravines. The area is characterized by spontaneous vegetation that is concentrated along the edge of the ravine, while the surrounding flat areas are cultivated. Discovered in 1987, the ravine is part of the Terra delle Gravine Regional Natural Park, established in 2005.
The flora is typical of the Mediterranean scrub, with plants such as mastic and spiny broom. The fauna includes various species of birds of prey, such as kestrels and buzzards, as well as mammals such as foxes and porcupines. In the ponds of the ravine there are also amphibian and reptile species. The ravine offers a unique environment for biodiversity and represents an important natural and historical resource for the region.
Orecchiette Pasta
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