Grotta delle Meraviglie caverns

It’s easy to whiz by the sign pointing to the Grotta della Meraviglia, or Cave of Marvels, but you should go looking for it because the underground wonders really will amaze you.

It was discovered by chance when road workers were putting in the SS 18 in the 1920s. A fallen hammer fell into the void and the astounded worker found not only his hammer but a magical underworld, as well.

Driving the coastal road, the Grotta is found in the area called Marina di Maratea. There is a small parking area along the SS 18, across the street from the entrance. Walking down a set of stairs to the door, you cross the threshold to earthly depths where minerals and water have created a sculptural fantasyland. It is a natural work of art formed over the span of several millennia. There are stalactite cascades and strands of mineral-dripping spaghetti; columns and glistening diamonds, all right below the road. It culminates at the stalagmite Nativity scene, something special to behold.

The compact cavern is the smallest in Italy, measuring in at just 90 meters long (about a half-mile) with a descent of only eight meters, but it packs a whopping visual punch that will leave you marveling during the 30 minute journey of wonders. Even my geologist hubby was duly impressed.

Be sure to bring a jacket; despite its short span and shallow depth it’s a bit chilly inside, even in summer.

There are set, regular visiting hours during high season (June through September) and the guides are also proficient in English. If you want to make sure, call in advance to request an English-language guide. In other seasons, the Grotta is open by appointment. If you have a group, you can request a private tour (but be sure to set it up in advance).

The Grotta delle Meraviglie is located on SS 18, 200 meters (650 feet) south of the turn-off for the Spiaggia Nera (black sand beach, #16). There is parking along the side road, 80 meters north of the cavern’s sign and entrance. For information in English go to this site. More information is found here (in Italian but you can use translator.)

Special thanks to Valerie Fortney who graciously allowed us to reprint the information from a chapter in her excellent guidebook, 52 Things to See and Do in Basilicata. Photo credit also goes to Valerie Fortney. 52 Things to See and Do in Basilicata, published in 2020 and updated in 2023. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author. We thank the author for permission to reprint this portion.