Caves around Carovigno offer insights into the region's historical and natural landscape. Carovigno, situated in the province of Brindisi, is characterized by its historical center and proximity to the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve. The area features various rock-cut structures and natural formations, many with significant historical and religious importance. These sites provide opportunities to explore ancient human settlements and unique geological features.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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The "Donna di Ostuni" is the 28,000-year-old skeleton of a Paleolithic woman, approximately 20 years old, found in the Santa Maria di Agnano cave near Ostuni. The "world's oldest human mother" died in late pregnancy, her fetus in the 8th or 9th month. The skeleton is on display at the Museum of Preclassic Civilizations of the Southern Murgia (Museo di Civiltà Preclassiche della Murgia Meridionale) in Ostuni.
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A stroll along the seafront in the center of the Villanova marina
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In 1278 the walls of Villanova were built, and about 20 years later the castle was built by the Angevins, who took over the domination of Ostuni from the Swabian-Normans, who were responsible for the intensification of olive cultivation. From surviving documents, demonstrating its strategic importance, it appears that around the 15th century the castle was a fully active defensive structure. In fact, the city of Ostuni under Aragonese domination, thanks also to the castle and the small port of Villanova, managed to maintain the status of a state city, therefore free from feudal duties. Due to the various destructions over time, little remains of the original 14th-century construction. Currently the castle is made up of three bodies that act as square towers with a sloped base. Around the building, at the height of the first floor, runs a tubular torus and from the roof of the building rises a turret modeled on the prototype of a lighthouse. Ref. https://fondoambiente.it/luoghi/castello-del-porto-turistico-di-villanova-ostuni
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it is a tourist port protected by two piers: the eastern pier 70 m long with quayside and bollards and the western pier 280 m long. Inside the dock there are some docks reserved for pleasure boats
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The 12th century church of San Biagio in Rialbo opens onto a natural cave. It is best to reach it from the Strada dei Colli rather than from the valley if you are a beginner MTB rider.
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The Sanctuary of San Biagio in Ostuni is located in one of the most beautiful natural contexts in the province of Brindisi. Whether you reach the church from the top of the hill or go up the hill from the plain, the route is immersed in lush nature and characterized by stone artefacts which, due to their form and functions, bear witness to settlements from various eras. On February 3, however, the day on which the Saint is celebrated, the pilgrims' route is usually the easiest for everyone. Arriving from the panoramic Strada dei Colli you will find a sign with the indication. The path to reach the site is equally beautiful because it immerses you in the typical Murgia nature, rich in pastures and Mediterranean scrub shrubs. Before going down to the church, here comes the boundless view of the Piana degli Ulivi centenaries, in the area occupied by the Parco delle Dune Costiere. From here, if the sky is clear, the Adriatic Sea appears an intense turquoise. At this point a narrow descent p
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Nice ride even on rocks and beaches
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The rock church of San Biagio is located in a rock village built along the rocky walls of the depression created by the course of the Canale Reale. It is one of the main rock settlements in the region: an intact and well-preserved pictorial cycle adorns the church. A community of Italian-Byzantine monks settled here before the 12th century and used the caves which had probably already been used in previous times.
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The Sanctuary and Rock Church of Maria Santissima di Belvedere is highly significant, known for its historical and religious importance, including Byzantine frescoes and a connection to the ancient "'Nzegna" festival. Another notable site is the Santa Maria di Agnano Archaeological Park, which features a cave used for female rituals for 30,000 years and the discovery of the Paleolithic "woman of Ostuni."
Yes, the region is rich in rock churches. The Sanctuary and Rock Church of Maria Santissima di Belvedere is a prominent example, featuring natural caves on two levels with ancient frescoes. Additionally, the Rock Church Sanctuary of San Biagio, founded by Basilian monks in the 12th century, offers an atmospheric visit with scenic views near Ostuni.
At the Sanctuary and Rock Church of Maria Santissima di Belvedere, you can find Byzantine frescoes, with some dating back to the 16th and 14th centuries in its upper and lower crypts. The Santa Maria di Agnano Archaeological Park is notable for the discovery of Paleolithic burials, including the 27,000-year-old "woman of Ostuni."
While specific caves may have varying accessibility, the Villanova Harbour and Castle area, which includes some natural coves, is listed as family-friendly. For historical insights, the Santa Maria di Agnano Archaeological Park can be an engaging educational experience for families interested in ancient history.
You can explore various outdoor activities. For cycling, consider routes like the 'Torre di Punta Penne – Roman Columns of Brindisi loop' or 'Villanova Harbour and Castle – Pozzelle Tower loop' from the Cycling around Carovigno guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as 'Ostuni – The White City – Road to Santa Maria di Agnano loop' in the MTB Trails around Carovigno guide. For running, the 'Torre Guaceto Reserve Loop' is a popular option from the Running Trails around Carovigno guide.
Yes, many of the cave sites are integrated into the natural landscape, offering opportunities for walking or hiking. For example, the Rock Church Sanctuary of San Biagio is reached via a grass path, and its surroundings offer scenery extending down to the sea. While not exclusively hiking, the nearby cycling and MTB guides also feature routes that pass through scenic areas where caves are located.
Beyond the caves themselves, you'll encounter diverse landscapes. The Rock Church Sanctuary of San Biagio is nestled in a rocky ridge with views extending to the sea. The region is also close to the Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve, offering coastal scenery, and the general area is characterized by Mediterranean scrub and historical olive groves.
While not a primary cave attraction, the Villanova Harbour and Castle area, which is part of the Ostuni marina, features white sand beaches interspersed with rocky coves. These natural formations offer opportunities to explore the coastline.
Visitors often appreciate the blend of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. The hidden nature and atmospheric setting of sites like the Rock Church Sanctuary of San Biagio are frequently highlighted. The rich historical context, from Paleolithic discoveries at Santa Maria di Agnano Archaeological Park to the Byzantine frescoes of the Sanctuary and Rock Church of Maria Santissima di Belvedere, also leaves a strong impression.
The region generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) are often ideal, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring both the indoor cave sites and the surrounding outdoor landscapes without the intense heat of summer or the cooler, wetter conditions of winter.
No, there are two distinct rock churches named San Biagio in the broader region. The Rock Church Sanctuary of San Biagio near Ostuni is known for its atmospheric setting and sea views. Another Rock Church of San Biagio is located in a rock village near Brindisi, notable for its intact pictorial cycle and requiring prior arrangement for visits.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Carovigno: