Group Visit and Tasting at Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo in Martina Franca with 3 Oils, Bread and Frise

Group Visit and Tasting at Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo in Martina Franca – 3 Oils, Bread & Frise

Discover an exclusive group experience that combines the exploration of a fascinating historic site with the tasting of local delicacies. With the Group Visit at Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo with Tasting of 3 Oils, Bread & Frise, you’ll immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of an ancient underground oil mill, experiencing a carefully designed route that celebrates the Apulian olive oil tradition.

If you need a guide (we have guides in Italian, English, German, French, Spanish) to accompany you on your visit to the Frantoio Ipogeo, you can purchase the service of an expert guide of the Frantoio Ipogeo separately. Once you have purchased the service, we will contact you to agree on which guide will accompany you.

The History and Features of the Oil Mill

The Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo is a true hidden treasure in the heart of Martina Franca, telling centuries of history and passion for olive oil.

• Medieval Origins:

  • Born from a natural cave eroded by water, the oil mill was expanded during the Middle Ages by master artisans to produce lamp oil, which was indispensable for daily lighting until the 19th century.

• Evolution and Functions:

  • In addition to producing lamp oil, the mill was used to process olives for culinary, medicinal, and hygienic purposes—such as soap production—until new technologies rendered it obsolete in the 1960s.

• Revival and Restoration:

  • After decades of abandonment, in 2005 a passionate artisan restored this magical place, integrating modern techniques while preserving its historical authenticity.

• Unique Features:

  • Stone walls that house millennial fossils
  • Ancient millstones and collection basins that tell the story of olive oil tradition
  • Hypogean architecture that creates an intimate and mysterious atmosphere

Group Visit with Tasting

During the Group Visit at Frantoio Rosso Ipogeo in Martina Franca with Tasting of 3 Oils, Bread & Frise, your group will follow a pre-established itinerary designed to highlight both the historical heritage and the enogastronomic offerings of the mill.

• Pre-Arranged Itinerary:

  • Follow a set route that guides you through corridors and spaces carved into the rock, where every corner tells centuries-old stories.

• Included Tasting:

  • The experience features a tasting of 3 Different Extra Virgin Olive Oils, each with its own unique character and unmistakable aromatic bouquet, served with fresh bread and frise, allowing you to discover the authentic nuances of the local products. To accompany the tasting you can purchase a glass of wine of your choice, among those available, at a cost of €3.

Group Visit Itinerary

The itinerary has been designed to offer a complete experience—from exploring the history of the mill to tasting its exceptional products:

1. Welcome and Introduction
   • Presentation of the oil mill’s history: its origins, evolution, and restoration.
2. Tour of the Hypogea
   • Exploration of the rock-carved areas, with special attention to the ancient millstones, collection basins, and traditional tools.
3. Tasting of the 3 Oils
   • A dedicated moment to taste the 3 different Extra Virgin Olive Oils, served with fresh bread and frise, to appreciate their organoleptic characteristics.
4. Conclusion
   • A summary of the experience with an opportunity for questions and further insights into the history and techniques of olive oil production.

Additional Details About the Oil Mill

The oil mill is not just an enogastronomic stop—it is a true treasure trove of history:

• Hypogean Architecture:
  • Wander through underground corridors and spaces carved from a natural cave, where light plays with the shadows of ancient stones.
• Historical Elements:
  • Get up close to historical relics, such as ancient millstones and collection basins, which testify to the artisanal mastery of a bygone era.
• Atmosphere and Mystery:
  • Every corner of the oil mill exudes authenticity, offering an intimate and almost magical experience that takes you back in time.

Visiting Tips

• Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate attire, as some areas of the hypogea may be slightly damp.
• Duration: Plan for at least one hour to fully enjoy the experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in both the history and the flavors of the oil mill.
• Camera: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unique details—from millennial fossils and ancient tools to the highlights of the tasting.

Prepare to experience the perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor in the heart of Martina Franca. Enjoy your exploration and bon appétit!