Italy, Sicily, Iblei Mountains, Cava d'Ispica, Troglodyte caves

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Cava d'Ispica

Southeastern Sicily


The town of Ispica, about 12km southeast of Modica, is located at the head of the 13km-long gorge known as Cava d'Ispica. Long used as a neolithic burial site, the caves were transformed into cave dwellings in the Middle Ages. The gorge is verdant and you can follow a path along the whole length of the valley. The area includes a restored 18th-century watermill, now the fascinating Museo Cavallo d'Ispica, which offers a glimpse of rural Sicilian life as it once was.

If you do plan on exploring the gorge, make sure to wear sensible walking shoes and to bring a bottle of water.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Southeastern Sicily attractions

1. Museo Cavallo d'Ispica

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The Cerruto family have lovingly restored this early 18th-century watermill, located in the Cava d'Ispica archaeological area. Now a museum, its…

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