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Many underground oil mills have been created by man in natural cavities, placed on either side of the ancient Via Traiana. Many of them are of Roman origin, often modified in the Middle Ages; their employment lasted until the mid-nineteenth century, when they were replaced by epigeal mills, more functional and productive. The proximity to the ancient Roman road allowed the oil transport to the commercial ports of Salento (such as Brindisi and even more Gallipoli), and this explains why so many mills are settled along this path.
Many of these historic oil industries, forgotten for years, often used as animal shelter or abandoned, have been brought to light again, regained their former glory and are now accessible by visitors. Many tower farms, real fortresses with a typical military architecture, built from the sixteenth century, guard the underground mills, a source of wealth for the entire community.
The system of environmental and cultural resources of the park is very articulate and well connected by a dense network of paths and tracks and this has helped to develop in a particular way the agri-tourism activities. The numerous recreational facilities that are located in the flat olive grove around the Park make of this area a real district of rural hospitality. In addition to promoting the recovery of ancient historical and architectural buildings and upgrading of the rural areas, this is an important vehicle for the promotion and marketing of olive oil and monumental olive groves, indirectly contributing to the protection of the landscape.
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