Grotte del Cantinone
Description
Grotte del Cantinone is an underground network of tunnels and chambers stretching approximately 300 meters beneath Osimo's historic center, carved into soft sandstone bedrock. The maze-like layout features multiple crossroads and passages, with walls decorated by religious carvings and symbols.
History
The site was likely created during Roman times or earlier by the Picene civilization and later expanded by medieval monks using simple tools. It served as both a protective shelter and, in subsequent periods, as a place for religious gatherings and prayer.
Culture
The name refers to its location beneath the town's historic market area. Religious carvings and symbols line the walls, created by monks who used these chambers as places for prayer and quiet reflection.
Practical
Visits last approximately 45 to 50 minutes and the site is accessible year-round with guided tours, with temperatures remaining consistently cool underground. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the cave remains damp and cold even during warmer months.
Did you know?
The caves contain wells with carved footholds called pedaroles, indicating the site may have served practical purposes such as water collection alongside its spiritual and defensive roles. This combination of functions reveals how the space adapted to multiple needs over time.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Osimo).
The Marche region in central Italy stretches between the Apennines and the Adriatic Sea. This collection brings together places that let you explore the area: towns of art like Urbino and Ascoli Piceno, natural parks in the mountains, underground caves at Frasassi, seaside resorts along the coast,...
San Giuseppe da Copertino
62 m
Osimo Cathedral
185 m
Santuario della Beata Vergine Addolorata, Osimo
3.1 km
Palazzo Campana
180 m
Chiesa di S. Agostino
5.4 km
Civic Museum of Osimo
244 m
Palazzo Comunale
89 m
Palazzo Gallo
134 m
Chiesa di San Sabino
2.7 kmDiocesan museum of Osimo
176 m
San Giovanni Battista
166 mChiesa di San Benedetto
5.4 kmMuseo San Giuseppe da Copertino
94 mChurch Santa Maria della Misericordia
399 mChiesa di San Silvestro
120 mCave of Osimo
0 mChiesa delle Sante Palazia e Lucia
306 m
San Filippo
257 mCedro del Libano
4.5 kmMuseo di scienze Campana
800 mArea archeologica di Osimo
2.7 kmPino d'Aleppo
343 m
Santissima Trinità
127 mMura
26 mIstituto di istruzione superiore Corridoni-Campana
803 mEpiscopio della chiesa di S. Leopardo
190 mScenic viewpoint
367 mScenic viewpoint
674 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes