The Grotta dell"Elefante (Elephant Cave), so called because of its characteristic rocky conformation that makes it resemble an elephant, is located in Marina di Novaglie, part of the municipality of Alessano in the province of Lecce. We are on the Adriatic coast of the deep south of Salento, and this area full of hidden inlets and karstic caves all worth visiting is the jewel in the crown of a Salento waiting to be discovered in terms of landscape, history and geology. The view from the top of one of the many promontories in Marina di Novaglie is unparalleled; from here one can admire the immensity of the Adriatic Sea that becomes almost one with the blue of a clean sky. This area is also famous for hosting the Salento Rally every year. Engines aside, the Grotta dell"Elefante is especially important for the fact that a pebble carved by a human hand dating back to the Palaeolithic era was found inside it and this find is now on display at the Museo Civico di Paleontologia e Paletnologia in Maglie, in the province of Lecce. This landscape also offers trekking enthusiasts many nature trails to cross in close contact with uncontaminated nature. The most recommended of all and reopened to the public a few years ago is the ancient sheep-track from Novaglie to Gagliano del Capo, right up to the gates of Santa Maria di Leuca. The Salento summer continues to amaze amid magic, history and an enchanting landscape... Happy holidays.
Last update: 19/10/2022, Tonio Viva