Things to Do and See in Taranto

Taranto, whose earliest settlements date back to a group of Greek sailors around the 8th century A.D., is primarily an industrial city but one that also boasts remarkable artistic and scenic attractions. Guarding the harbor stands the Aragonese Castle, or Castel Sant’Angelo, which dates back to the 10th century. At its base lies the Swing Bridge, which spans the artificial canal connecting the open sea to one of the two natural inland basins, Mar Grande, a feature that gives this city its unique character. Crossing the Mar Grande and heading inland, you reach a second natural saltwater lake known as the Mare Piccolo. This unique geography has allowed for the substantial development of the fishing industry, especially in shellfish farming—particularly mussels, of which the city is a major producer. In the interior of the province lies Massafra, dominated by the imposing structures of its castle, the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and the Ancient Mother Church. Also worth mentioning is the town of Grottaglie, renowned for its distinctive artisanal ceramics, which are famous far and wide. The journey continues toward Martina Franca, situated on the hills of the Murgia and nestled in the Itria Valley. In its historic center, visitors can find interesting period mansions and numerous religious buildings, among which the Basilica of San Martino and the Church of the Carmine stand out, while in the countryside, one can see the famous trulli with their characteristic shape.