Grotte di Castellana
Puglia
The Castellana Caves, located near the town of Castellana Grotte in southern Italy's Puglia region, are a renowned karst cave system formed in limestone dating back to the Upper Cretaceous period. Discovered in 1938 by speleologist Franco Anelli, the caves extend over 3.3 kilometers and reach depths of up to 122 meters. The entrance, known as "La Grave," is a massive vertical chasm approximately 60 meters deep and serves as the only natural opening to the surface. Inside, visitors encounter an extraordinary array of stalactites, stalagmites, curtains, and crystalline formations, with notable chambers such as the Black Cavern, White Cave, and Precipice Cavern. The White Cave, discovered in 1940, is famed for its dazzling white calcite formations and was praised by Italian President Luigi Einaudi as "the most beautiful in the world." The caves maintain a constant temperature around 16.5 to 18 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable environment for exploration. Guided tours range from a shorter 1-kilometer route lasting about 50 minutes to a full 3-kilometer itinerary of roughly two hours, including night tours during summer months. The site also features an educational speleological museum and offers engaging activities that highlight the geological and ecological importance of the caves. The interplay of natural light within La Grave creates magical effects, enhancing the visitor experience. The Castellana Caves stand out as one of Italy's most spectacular and well-preserved karst systems, blending scientific interest with breathtaking natural beauty.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check seasonal tour schedules and consider booking tickets in advance, especially for the longer 3-kilometer tour or summer night visits. The caves are accessible year-round except on Christmas and New Year's Day. Comfortable footwear and a light jacket are recommended due to the constant cool temperature inside. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, enhancing the experience for international visitors. Educational tours for school groups provide an engaging way to learn about karst geology and cave ecosystems. Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and groups; checking official sources before visiting is recommended.
Interesting facts
- •The Grave is the sole natural entrance to the cave system and features a natural skylight that creates changing light effects throughout the day.
- •The White Cave was described by Italian President Luigi Einaudi as "the most beautiful cave in the world."
- •The cave system extends over 3.3 kilometers with a maximum depth of 122 meters.
- •The caves maintain a constant temperature of approximately 16.5 to 18 degrees Celsius year-round.
- •Night guided tours are offered during summer, providing a unique underground experience.
History
The Castellana Caves formed over millions of years beginning in the Upper Cretaceous period when the Apulia region was submerged under a sea.
Organic deposits accumulated on the seabed, eventually compressing into thick limestone layers.
Around 65 million years ago, tectonic uplift exposed the limestone, which fractured due to its rigidity.
Water infiltration through these fractures gradually dissolved the rock, enlarging cracks into extensive underground galleries and caverns.
The Grave, a deep vertical chasm, formed following the collapse of the cave ceiling and has been known locally for centuries.
The full cave system was first explored in 1938 by Franco Anelli, with the White Cave discovered two years later.
Subsequent decades saw ongoing excavation and study, revealing new passages and formations.
Restoration and cleaning efforts in 2006 improved visitor access and uncovered potential new cavities, indicating that exploration of the system continues.
Place Guide
La GraveUpper Cretaceous (approx. 90-100 million years ago)
The enormous vertical entrance chasm approximately 60 meters deep and 100 meters long, serving as the natural skylight and only natural opening to the surface. It features striking light effects as sunlight filters down, illuminating stalagmite formations called the Cyclopes and casting dramatic shadows on the cave walls.
White Cave (Grotta Bianca)Discovered 1940
Discovered in 1940, this chamber is renowned for its dazzling white calcite formations, considered among the most beautiful in the world. It showcases exceptional mineral concretions that sparkle and create a spectacular underground landscape.
Speleological Museum
An annex to the cave complex providing educational exhibits about karst geology, cave formation processes, and the unique ecosystem of the subterranean environment. The museum offers interactive and engaging learning experiences for visitors of all ages.
Contact
Phone: 080 499 8221
