Grotta dei Santi

Grotta dei Santi is a cave complex with underground chambers and catacombs built into the hillside of Poggio dei Santi. The site contains multiple levels with rock-cut sarcophagi and painted wall decorations preserved on the burial chambers.

The site began as a Christian burial ground in late antiquity and later transformed into a monastic settlement under Byzantine rule. This change shows how early Christian communities adapted sacred places to meet new religious needs.

The complex served as an important burial ground for Christian communities and shows how different groups used the same space over time. The rock-cut tombs and surviving decorations tell of varied craftsmanship and religious practices.

The site is accessible via the old state road 194 and a small path leads to the two terraced levels containing the underground chambers. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain when visiting.

Archaeological evidence shows that people used this place continuously for over a thousand years, from late antiquity through the 15th century. Interestingly, traces of prehistoric settlements have also been found, indicating the area was inhabited long before the Christian burials.