In recent years, Puglia has become famous above all for its coasts and crystal clear sea. But, moving inland , you will discover spectacular cities and places, full of history and traditions .

One of these is Gravina in Puglia , a city located close to the border with Basilicata. It is not surprising, therefore, to note that its village develops right above a canyon very similar to the one found in Matera. In fact, the two cities are twins, from a geological point of view.

But what distinguishes the gravina (this is the scientific name of the canyon, from which the name of the city itself derives) of Matera from that of Gravina is an imposing architectural element, impossible not to notice: the bridge, viaduct and aqueduct .

Its structure, 37 meters high, sinks its load-bearing columns into the walls and the bottom of the ravine. Originally, in its place there was another bridge, destroyed following an earthquake in 1722.

Thanks to the Orsini family, who at the time administered the Gravina fiefdom, a new bridge was built between the 17th and 18th centuries that, in addition to being crossable, was also an aqueduct. Thus, for the first time in the history of the city, it was possible to channel spring water to bring it under the walls and make it more easily accessible to citizens.

There have been many directors who have not remained immune to the charm and beauty of the ravine: since the last century, Gravina has hosted several film sets, particularly concentrated on the edge of the ravine.

Especially in recent years, the aqueduct bridge has become the symbol of Gravina cinema , first with Il ladro di giorni by Guido Lombardi (2019) and with Pinocchio by Matteo Garrone (2019); then with the intense chase scenes seen at the beginning of the latest film in the James Bond saga, No time to die by Cary Fukunaga (2021). In short, this is certainly an attraction not to be missed! Write to us to find out about the all-inclusive packages that will allow you to visit Gravina and breathe in the history of this magnificent city.