The LIPU Oasis at Laterza

The visitor centre of the LIPU Gravina di Laterza Oasis is about 600 metres from the town centre, to the south. Once you enter the town, whatever direction you come from, you will find signposts for the LIPU Gravina di Laterza Oasis at many junctions. Follow them carefully and in just a few minutes you will be at the visitor centre. The Gravina di Laterza is the most imposing canyon in a system of gravine (ravines) spread out like a fan around the Gulf of Taranto, together forming a real system known as the gravine of the Ionian Arch. Included in the planned Regional Park of the Ionian gravine, the Laterza gravina covers 800 hectares and is already an IBA and SPA (Special Protection Area) and p-SCI (proposed Site of Community Importance); it is a canyon 12 km long, 500 metres wide and up to 200 metres deep.

There are numerous endemics among a flora often characterised by trans-Adriatic species. Egyptian vultures, lanners, black kites and lesser kestrels, all nesting here, guarantee, along with many other animal species, contact with an unusual and deeply fascinating natural environment. The oasis has been a LIPU Oasis since 1999 and has a modern visitor centre, equipped trails and qualified staff who look after its protection, enhancement and environmental education. We did not make a thorough visit because of the bad weather, but we intend to return on fine spring days.