Exploring the Depths of Puglia: The Castellana Caves
Hidden beneath the gentle hills of the Valle d’Itria, the Castellana Caves (Grotte di Castellana) are one of southern Italy’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
Formed over 90 million years ago, this complex of underground caverns stretches for more than 3,300 meters and plunges to depths of over 120 meters.
Located just a few kilometers from Alberobello, Polignano a Mare, and Monopoli, the caves offer a journey through geological time — an awe-inspiring world sculpted by nature’s hand.
Since opening to the public, the caves have welcomed over 15 million visitors, drawn by their surreal stalactites, stalagmites, and dazzling rock formations.
1. A Discovery from the Depths of Time
The caves were officially discovered on January 23, 1938, by the speleologist Franco Anelli, who entered through the chasm known as La Grave.
For centuries, locals feared this abyss, believing it was the gateway to hell — a myth that only deepened the site’s mystique.
Anelli’s exploration revealed a breathtaking network of galleries and halls, each with fantastical formations that resemble animals, faces, and abstract sculptures.
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2. A Natural Escape from the Summer Heat
Inside the Castellana Caves, the temperature remains a constant 17°C (63°F) all year round, with humidity levels near 90%.
This makes the caves a refreshing retreat during Puglia’s hot summer months — and an ideal family-friendly experience even on rainy days.
Bring a light jacket or sweater, comfortable shoes, and prepare to step into another world beneath the Apulian soil.
3. Choose Your Journey: Two Routes, One Wonder
Visitors can choose between two guided routes:
Short route – 1 km, about 50 minutes, perfect for families or those with limited time.
Full route – 3 km, about two hours, leading to the spectacular White Cave (Grotta Bianca), famous for its pure alabaster walls that seem to glow from within.
Tours are available in multiple languages, and reservations are recommended in high season. You can book directly through the Castellana Caves website.
4. Still Hiding Secrets Beneath the Surface
Even after decades of exploration, the Castellana Caves may still conceal new passages.
Recent geophysical studies have revealed further layers of sediment and hinted at undiscovered branches beyond the known chambers.
This ongoing research keeps alive the spirit of exploration that first inspired Franco Anelli’s descent — proof that nature’s masterpiece is still evolving deep underground.
5. “Hell in the Cave”: Art Meets Nature
Since 2008, the Castellana Caves have hosted “Hell in the Cave” — an immersive theatre performance inspired by Dante’s Inferno.
This dance, sound, and light spectacle transforms the natural chambers into a dramatic stage, offering audiences a one-of-a-kind experience — often called “the largest underground show in the world.”
Performances are seasonal, and advance booking is essential. You can find dates and tickets on the Hell in the Cave website.
