Castellana Grotte (Bari): A Journey Through Caves and Culture

Located in the province of Bari, Castellana Grotte is one of the most fascinating destinations in Apulia, renowned for its extraordinary karst cave system and its rich historical and cultural heritage. Nestled in a hilly landscape, this town is an unmissable stop for those seeking a journey through caves and culture.

Historical Overview

The origins of Castellana Grotte date back to the Middle Ages and are closely linked to the colonization efforts of the Monastery of San Benedetto in Conversano. The first documented settlement goes back to the 10th century, during the Byzantine rule, a period in which the town began to develop as an agricultural and religious center.
Later, Castellana came under Norman and Swabian control, which reinforced its defensive structures and ushered in a period of political stability. During the Angevin domination, the town experienced significant economic growth thanks to the expansion of agriculture and livestock farming, which remained the community’s main activities for centuries.
The official foundation of the town is dated to December 1171, when Castellana obtained its own administrative identity. In the 17th century, the population was severely affected by a plague epidemic, but according to tradition, the intercession of the Madonna della Vetrana miraculously saved the townspeople. Since then, the veneration of the Virgin has been central to the town’s religious and social life.
During the Bourbon period and the unification of Italy, Castellana Grotte continued to grow and develop, becoming an important economic and cultural hub in the region.
In 1938, the discovery of the Castellana Caves by Professor Franco Anelli marked a turning point for the town, opening the doors to intense tourism development that continues to this day.

The Castellana Caves

The city's crown jewel is undoubtedly the Castellana Caves complex, a system of karst caves discovered on January 23, 1938, by speleologist Franco Anelli. Located about 1.5 km from the town center, the cave system stretches for over 3 km and reaches a depth of about 70 meters.
The entrance to the underground system is represented by the Grave, a massive natural chasm illuminated by sunlight, creating a dramatic effect on the rock walls. Continuing along the path, visitors encounter several breathtaking chambers, including the Black Cave, Monument Chamber, Owl Chamber and the majestic White Cave, considered one of the most beautiful in the world due to the purity of its crystalline formations.
The caves offer a breathtaking experience thanks to their abundance of stalactites, stalagmites, columns and limestone draperies formed over millions of years. In addition to their tourist appeal, the Castellana Caves are of enormous scientific interest for the study of geology and paleontology in Apulia.

Places of Interest

To continue your journey through caves and culture, Castellana offers many other attractions worth visiting:

• Mother Church of San Leone Magno: built in 1383, it is the town’s main religious building, featuring a striking façade and precious artworks inside.
• Sanctuary of Maria SS. della Vetrana: a place of worship linked to the 1691 plague miracle, it is a pilgrimage destination of great spiritual importance.
• Clock Tower: located in the heart of the historic center, it symbolizes the town and offers a charming panoramic view.
• Franco Anelli Speleological Museum: an interesting exhibition that tells the story of the cave discovery and the area's geological features.
• Dinosaur Park: a perfect attraction for families and paleontology enthusiasts, with life-sized reconstructions of prehistoric dinosaurs.

Gastronomy

The cuisine of Castellana Grotte is a celebration of authentic Apulian flavors. The local dishes are simple yet full of taste, based on wholesome ingredients tied to the region’s farming traditions:

• Orecchiette with turnip tops: a classic Apulian dish, flavored with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and chili
• Fava bean and chicory: a rustic dish combining fava purée and boiled chicory, perfectly balanced in flavor.
• Panzerotti: delicious fried dough pockets filled with mozzarella and tomato, loved by both adults and children.
• Braciole in tomato sauce: horse meat rolls slowly cooked in a rich tomato sauce
• “Sgagliozze”: fried polenta slices, crispy on the outside and soft inside, often served as street food.
• Focaccia barese: made with potatoes in the dough, topped with cherry tomatoes and olives, and baked in a wood-fired oven

For desserts, Castellana Grotte offers a variety of treats:

• Cartellate: rose-shaped fried pastries, topped with honey or cooked wine (vincotto).
• Sweet taralli: crumbly biscuits, perfect with a glass of local wine.
• “Sporcamuss“: deliziosi dolcetti di pasta sfoglia ripieni di crema pasticcera e spolverati di zucchero a velo.

All of this is best enjoyed with local wines such as Primitivo and the Negroamaro, which enhance the traditional flavors of the region.

Local Traditions

Castellana Grotte is a town rich in traditions and festivals that mark the rhythm of local life:

• Festa delle “Fanòve": a religious festival deeply rooted in local tradition, held on January 11. The characteristic bonfires, or fanòve, are large piles of wood burned throughout the town at night in honor of the Madonna della Vetrana. Visitors can sample local delicacies offered by the hosts of each fanòva, such as taralli, roasted chickpeas, and fava beans, usually accompanied by a glass of wine.
• The Patronal festival: it takes place on the last weekend of April, featuring illuminations, four processions, concerts by various bands, and fireworks in honor of the Madonna della Vetrana. On the main day, at 12:00 noon, the most important procession takes place, called the "Gala Procession," with all 28 statues of Castellana's saints in order, followed by the patron saint, the Madonna della Vetrana.
• Feast of the Madonna del Caroseno: celebrated since 1692 on September 7–8, honoring Maria del Caroseno which highlights the role of the virgin as mother of the people.
• Cultural and gastronomic festivals: during the summer months, the town hosts many musical events, theater performances, and food festivals celebrating local products.
• Festival of San Leone Magno (late August): includes solemn processions, fireworks, and cultural events.

Castellana Grotte is a destination that blends history, nature, and tradition.
If you’re looking for a journey through caves and culture, come explore Castellana Grotte with our travel offers,complete with curated itineraries for an authentic and stress-free experience. Book now and get ready to discover the timeless charm of this Apulian gem!