The Dolmen La Chianca and the Santa Croce Caves: Bisceglie Exploration

Bari , Italy

The Dolmen La Chianca and the Santa Croce Caves: Bisceglie Exploration

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(1 reviews)

2h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

1) From the ancient Posta Santa Croce walking along the transhumance routes in Puglia.
We will start from Dolmen La Chianca, a prehistoric megalithic tomb from the Bronze Age. Crossing one of the typical blades of this territory we will reach a vast complex of karst origin characterized by the presence of caves where in 1955 a femur belonging to an adult individual of Homo sapiens neandertalensis was found.

2) Along the sea with a fantastic coastline full of sea caves that
they were inhabited since the Neolithic, as attested by the materials found by Majellaro and Prelorenzo.
We will discover the Caves of Ripalta. Along this stretch of the Via Francigena you can also admire the typical Apulian rural landscape with its dry stone walls, haystacks and small houses. We will continue on a short stretch through a fantastic meadow of spontaneous orchids and we will be able to reach Cala Pantano, a small inlet created by the blades, erosive furrows typical of the Apulian landscape.

Available options

The Dolmen La Chianca and the Santa Croce Caves: Bisceglie Exploration

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel pick-up

Detailed itinerary

From the ancient Posta Santa Croce walking along the roads of transhumance in Puglia, an unprecedented path between the Murgia and the Adriatic in a very little known place despite the proximity to the urban centers of Bisceglie and 2
Corato. A little off the beaten path and extremely interesting for the landscape and historical relevance it includes. On our way we will immediately find the Dolmen La Chianca, a prehistoric megalithic tomb from the Bronze Age.
Crossing one of the typical blades of this area we will reach a vast complex of karst origin characterized by the presence of caves where in 1955 a femur belonging to an adult individual of Homo sapiens neandertalensis was found.

There have been found evidence of human presence from the Middle Paleolithic to the Bronze Age. Numerous primitive animal remains, stone tools and Neolithic paintings were also found in 1955.
Remained in a complete state of neglect and neglect, the caves have been revalued by the Scout Group of Bisceglie since 1975 and made accessible to the public since 1990, with the approval and collaboration of the Municipality of Bisceglie and the Archaeological Superintendence of Puglia. In 1997 the University of Siena was also involved in several excavations that brought to light a Neolithic mat.
Finally reopened after the execution of static consolidation works carried out in autumn 2021.

Coasting the sea with a fantastic coastline full of sea caves that were inhabited since the Neolithic period, as attested by the materials found by Majellaro and Prelorenzo. We will discover the Caves of Ripalta. Along this stretch of the Via Francigena you can also admire the typical Apulian rural landscape with its dry stone walls, straw huts and small houses. We will continue on a short stretch of pebble beach, and then through a fantastic meadow of spontaneous orchids we will be able to reach the coves, small bays created by the blades, erosive furrows typical of the Apulian landscape, which convey the rainwater from the Murge karst plateau towards the Adriatic Sea.

What's not included

Entrance ticket to Grotta Santa Croce

Visit and tasting in the oil mill

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Bari

Bari, the capital of Puglia, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Known for its Baroque buildings, lively markets, and delicious cuisine, Bari offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. The city's historic center, Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and hidden squares, while the modern part of the city boasts a beautiful waterfront promenade and bustling commercial areas.

Top Attractions

Basilica di San Nicola

This 11th-century basilica is one of the most important religious sites in Bari. It houses the relics of Saint Nicholas and is a major pilgrimage destination.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Castello Svevo

This 13th-century castle was built by Emperor Frederick II and has been used as a prison, military barracks, and now a museum. It is a key historical landmark in Bari.

Historical 1-2 hours €4 for the museum

Bari Vecchia

The old town of Bari is a maze of narrow streets, ancient churches, and hidden squares. It is a charming area with a rich history and unique atmosphere.

Historical Several hours Free to explore

Lungomare Nazario Sauro

This beautiful waterfront promenade offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Teatro Petruzzelli

This is one of the largest and most prestigious theaters in Italy, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Cultural 2-3 hours for a performance Varies depending on the performance

Must-Try Local Dishes

Orecchiette con le Cime di Rapa

A traditional Puglian dish made with homemade orecchiette pasta and turnip greens, cooked with garlic, olive oil, and chili pepper.

Main Dish Vegetarian

Focaccia Barese

A delicious flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs. It is a staple of Puglian cuisine and a must-try in Bari.

Snack Vegetarian

Bomba di Bari

A traditional dessert made with almonds, sugar, and egg whites, shaped into a small ball and coated in sugar.

Dessert Vegetarian

Friselle

A twice-baked bread that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically served with tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Cave exploration in Castellana Grotte Hiking in the surrounding countryside Beach days in Polignano a Mare Leisurely walks along the Lungomare Nazario Sauro Exploring the historic center of Bari Vecchia Visiting the Basilica di San Nicola Swimming and sunbathing at the beaches in Polignano a Mare Boat tours along the Adriatic coast

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season in Bari is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the city. This is the busiest time of year, with festivals, events, and a lively atmosphere.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Bari is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is important to exercise caution in certain areas, especially at night, and to be aware of common scams and pickpocketing.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or app-based services to avoid scams
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Karol Wojtyla Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Bari Centrale

By bus

Bari Centrale Bus Station, Bari Polignano Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

AMTAB operates an extensive network of buses covering the city and its suburbs. The buses are efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bari Vecchia Murattiano San Nicola Madonnella

Day trips

Alberobello

60 km from Bari • Full day

Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique trulli houses, which are cone-shaped dwellings with a rich history.

Polignano a Mare

40 km from Bari • Half day

This charming coastal town is known for its stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and its beautiful beaches.

Matera

100 km from Bari • Full day

Matera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cave dwellings, known as Sassi, and its rich history.

Festivals

Fiera del Levante • September Bari International Film Festival • October Sagra del Polpo • August

Pro tips

Visit the Basilica di San Nicola early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Explore the historic center of Bari Vecchia on foot to discover hidden gems and local life.
Try the local specialties, such as orecchiette pasta and focaccia barese, at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Take a day trip to Alberobello to see the unique trulli houses and learn about the city's rich history.
Visit the Castello Svevo for cultural events and concerts, especially during the summer months.