Matera & Grottaglie from Lecce

Embark on a fascinating journey starting from Lecce, with the first stop just 50 minutes away in Grottaglie, renowned for its vibrant and colorful ceramics. The city’s District of Ceramics is home to the Museum of Ceramics, where you’ll delve into the rich tradition of pottery making. The museum showcases five distinct sections and over 400 artifacts, including traditional ceramics used in daily life, exquisite majolica pieces such as dishes and jugs, as well as devotional objects. Additionally, you’ll discover an archaeological section that features ancient finds dating back to the 8th to 4th centuries B.C.

After exploring Grottaglie, you’ll continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera, a city famed for its ancient Sassi district. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through a labyrinth of narrow streets, where history, tradition, and spirituality blend seamlessly. The rock hewn churches and cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs create a truly unique atmosphere, making Matera a backdrop for numerous famous films.

You’ll have some free time to explore and soak in the magical ambience of this ancient city. By the end of the day, you’ll return to Lecce around 6:00 pm, carrying memories of two of the most iconic locations in Southern Italy.