Description
Puglia (Salento in particular) is one of the regions with the highest concentration of dolmens in Italy.
Giurdignano is a truly tangible example, as its territory is almost entirely dotted with megalithic monuments, dolmens, and menhirs, which tell ancient stories and evocative legends, catapulting tourists into a seemingly magical "parallel universe."
It is therefore no coincidence that Giurdignano has been recognized as the "Megalithic Garden of Italy" due to the large presence of these precious ancient treasures, scattered throughout the small town and the surrounding countryside.
Each stone, whether those of the dolmens, which are prehistoric tombs, or those of the menhirs, which are unique monuments with an irregular shape and whose precise function is still unknown, has a particular story to tell, which can be discovered by following the streets of the town and the countryside, embarking on a unique and fascinating journey.
You can start from the San Vincenzo Menhir, located on the street of the same name, which likely dates back to the Bronze Age, and then continue to Vico Nuovo, where you'll find yourself in front of the beautiful Twin Menhirs.
Following the "Percorso Megalitico" signs, you'll enter the countryside until you reach the Trappitello del Duca Hypogeum Oil Mill, built in the 16th century and recognizable by the sign (with explanations) at the entrance.
From here, simply follow the road that leads to the Vicinanze 1 Menhir, whose eastern facade boasts the engraving of two crosses made following the Edict of Thessalonica. But that's not all, because about 200 meters away, the Vicinanze 2 Menhir appears in all its mysticism, positioned on a rocky spur.
The journey through this legendary territory can continue to the well-preserved Dolmen Stabile and the Crypt and Menhir of Saint Paul, at the base of which is a small Byzantine shrine from which you can glimpse the remains of the interior frescoes.
In Giurdignano, you can take a true journey back in time, one that enters your soul and never leaves.
Source: Comune di Giurdignano
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