Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo Martina Franca: Visit to the Medieval Oil Mill

Nestled in the heart of Martina Franca, the Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo offers a captivating window into the region’s rich oil-producing heritage. This medieval oil mill, with its geological wonders and historical insights, invites visitors to explore the fascinating story of how olive oil shaped the lives and traditions of the local community. From the intricate machinery to the tasting of the estate’s prized extra virgin olive oil, the experience promises to immerse guests in a bygone era, leaving them eager to uncover more.

Key Points

• Guided tour of an underground 18th-19th century oil mill in Martina Franca, showcasing its industrial heritage and geological formations.
• Immersive tasting experience featuring the estate’s extra virgin olive oil and traditional regional products.
• Wheelchair accessible site with a toilet and station for users with disabilities.
• Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made without upfront payment.
• Limited group size of 5 participants for an intimate and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The activity known as "Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo Martina Franca: Visit to the Medieval Oil Mill" offers visitors a guided tour of an industrial archaeology site, priced from $7.62 per person.

Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations can be made without upfront payment.

The tour lasts for one day, with a limited group size of 5 participants.

Wheelchair accessibility is available, including a toilet and station for users with disabilities.

The starting location is in Martina Franca, near the Church of St. Francis or the highway to Alberobello.

Location and Accessibility

The starting location for the tour is Via Alberobello, 16, in Martina Franca.

The site is wheelchair accessible, with facilities including a toilet and station for users with disabilities.

The meeting point is reachable from the center, near the Church of St. Francis, or from the highway to Alberobello.

This makes the oil mill easily accessible for visitors.

The tour provides an immersive experience in the heart of the historic town, allowing participants to explore the industrial archaeology and learn about the region’s rich oil production heritage.

Guided Tour of the Oil Mill

Visitors embark on a guided tour of the underground oil mill, delving into its rich industrial heritage. They’ll observe geological formations and fossils, learning about the early phases of oil production dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The tour explores the community life that thrived during this period, and chronicles the mill’s transition to edible oil production until the 1960s. The guide shares details on the mill’s modern renovations, which now allow for hosting events and tastings.

| Oil Production Phases | Community Life | Transition to Edible Oil | Modern Capabilities |

| — | — | — | — |

| 18th-19th centuries | Thrived during oil production | Until the 1960s | Events and tastings |

Geological and Historical Insights

As visitors descend into the underground oil mill, they’re greeted by geological formations and fossils that provide a window into the region’s distant past.

The exposed rocks and sedimentary layers chronicle the area’s geological history, offering insights into the environment and climate from centuries ago. Guides share the stories behind these natural artifacts, linking the oil mill’s industrial past to the very land that nourished the olive trees.

Guests can examine fossils up close, marveling at the plant and animal life that once thrived in this subterranean space. This geological dimension adds depth to the mill’s historical narrative.

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Community Life During Oil Production

During the mill’s heyday, the local community was deeply intertwined with its operation, playing vital roles in the oil production process.

Villagers contributed in three key ways:

1. As laborers, harvesting olives, operating the mill machinery, and transporting the oil.

2. As suppliers, providing essential materials like jute sacks, wooden barrels, and specialized tools.

3. As consumers, purchasing the mill’s olive oil for cooking, lighting, and other household needs.

This symbiotic relationship fostered a strong sense of community pride and interdependence, with the mill serving as the economic and social heart of the town.

Transition to Edible Oil Production

As the 20th century progressed, the Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo underwent a pivotal transition, shifting its focus from traditional lamp oil to the production of edible olive oil.

This shift reflected the evolving culinary preferences and dietary needs of the local community. The underground mill adapted its processes, leveraging technological advancements to refine the oil and ensure its suitability for cooking and consumption.

This transition allowed the Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo to remain relevant and continue serving the region’s olive oil needs well into the 1960s, before eventually undergoing modern renovations and repurposing.

Renovations and Modern Capabilities

The Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades. The once-industrial space has been meticulously renovated to accommodate a new era of visitors and events.

The Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo has undergone a remarkable transformation, transitioning from an industrial space to accommodate a new era of visitors and events.

Notable renovations include:

1. Upgraded facilities, including a wheelchair-accessible layout and dedicated spaces for users with disabilities.

2. Installation of modern tasting rooms and event spaces, allowing for intimate oil tastings and cultural experiences.

3. Incorporation of multimedia displays and interactive exhibits, enhancing the educational and immersive aspects of the tour.

These renovations have positioned the Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo as a thriving hub for cultural exchange, culinary exploration, and the preservation of Martina Franca’s rich heritage.

Tasting Experience and Local Products

Visitors to the Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo can expect an immersive tasting experience that showcases the local flavors of Martina Franca. Included in the tour is an opportunity to sample the estate’s renowned extra virgin olive oil, as well as other traditional regional products. The tasting experience provides a chance to learn about the unique characteristics and production methods of these artisanal goods.

| Tasting Inclusions | Description |

| — | — |

| Olive Oil | Locally produced extra virgin olive oil |

| Regional Products | Typical local delicacies and specialties |

| Purchasing | Opportunity to purchase products onsite |

This multisensory experience allows visitors to fully appreciate the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Common Questions

How Old Is the Underground Oil Mill?

The underground oil mill dates back to the 18th-19th centuries, when it was used for early oil production. It has been renovated and now offers tours and tastings of local olive oil.

Are There Any Special Events or Festivals Held at the Site?

The site hosts events and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the oil mill’s transition from industrial to edible oil production. Special events highlight the community’s history and facilitate opportunities to purchase local olive oil.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring an underground oil mill with uneven surfaces. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and tour duration.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, visitors are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks. The tour includes a guided tasting of local olive oil and products, so the activity is designed to provide a complete tasting experience.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Groups?

Yes, group discounts are available. Groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount on the tour price. Booking as a group helps save money while enjoying the guided tour and tasting experience together.

The Sum Up

Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo in Martina Franca offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of olive oil production. Visitors can discover the site’s geological formations, learn about the region’s past, and savor the estate’s exquisite extra virgin olive oil and local delicacies. This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the rich heritage of this medieval oil mill.

You can check availability for your dates here: