Top 5 Places to visit in Puglia’s Salento
As the weather shifts full force into Fall, you may be wondering what there is to do In the Heel of the Boot beyond just going to the area’s spectacular beaches. The region has a rich history thanks to the different civilizations that colonized the area over time. The area was first inhabited by the Messapians in the 5th century BC, and later on in the 13th century, Greek settlers founded the cities of Gallipoli, Otranto and Taranto that would become the landmarks of Magna Grecia.
One of the most noteworthy elements of all the coastal cities are the more than 70 watchtowers that dot the picturesque coastline, which were built to protect the coastal populations from different invaders, and can still be found today. If you’re wondering about the top 5 places to visit in Puglia’s Salento region, read on and learn all about the must-sees when visiting this fantastic region.
1. Explore Otranto, one of Salento’s ancient gems
Otranto is a picturesque town located on the east coast of the Salento peninsula, and is the most easternmost town in Italy. The town gets its name from the Strait of Otranto, which connects the Adriatic Sea with the Ionian Sea. It has a rich history thanks to the different cultures that have passed through, and has served as a natural bridge and strategic point between the East and West. In fact, it was one of the most important maritime centers during the Roman Empire and a point of trade with Greece. You can wander through the old town, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along the ancient walled area, visiting the Aragonese Castle, which often features temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the Baroque Cathedral of S. Maria Assunta, built in 1088 with its huge rose window, which houses 800 martyrs who were killed during the Turkish invasion of Otranto in 1480. Get lost in the windy streets and check out the local artisans who make the famous Salentine leather sandals. Not too far from Otranto, don’t miss the Cave di Bauxite, a stunning natural area from which aluminum was mined, and now you can find a magical green lake with red arid land surrounding it.
2. Ceramic shopping in Grottaglie
Puglia has been an important producer of ceramics since Grecian times thanks to the abundance of clay in the territory. Grottaglie is not far from the city of Taranto and the Ionian Sea, and was part of Magna Grecia nearly 3000 years ago when Puglia was a part of the Greek Empire. This city has been inhabited since the stone age, when grotto-like dwellings were carved into the rock, which is where the town got its name Grottaglie. Many of the artisans' studios, in the Ceramic Quarter are cut into the ravine near where the Castle lies today. One of the most well-known styles of pottery that can be found in Grottaglie is the splatter pattern. This pattern, also known as schizzato in Italian, was traditionally a cheap way of decorating everyday objects by dipping rosemary in paint and splattering the ceramics with a touch of blue, turquoise and aquamarine. The ceramics in Grottaglie have stayed at accessible prices and are a great Apulian souvenir.
3. Visit Lecce by Night
Lecce is full of things to do as you can discover in our Top 5 things to do in Lecce post. And one of the best things to do in Lecce is to explore the historic center by night. As the Baroque buildings come alive with lights, the plazas fill with people enjoying a glass of wine or an aperitivo, and the energy of the city is palpable. Take a stroll through the historic center and experience the vibrant city of Lecce by night.
4. Wander through Gallipoli’s beautiful historic center
The quaint historic center is full of narrow winding streets, with authentic bars and cafes to stop for a coffee or a glass of Rosé. Don’t miss the city’s top attraction, the Castello Angioino di Gallipoli, which dates back to the 13th century. Wander through Corte Gallo, and check out one of the many churches. Gallipoli is also the perfect jumping off point for excursions to stunning beaches such as Punta della Suina, Samsara Beach or Spiaggia di Pescoluse (Maldive del Salento). Check out our 5 Best Beaches in Puglia post to discover all the best beaches in Salento and to learn more about Salento, check out Our Guide to Salento.
5. Go hiking in Porto Selvaggio
For those looking to discover the natural side of Salento, don’t miss Porto Selvaggio, the perfect place for a nature hike. Porto Selvaggio covers 1000 hectares, and has two watchtowers, Torre dell’Alto and Torre Uluzzo. It is covered with pine, eucalyptus, olive trees and Mediterranean scrub, plus rocky coves featuring pristine turquoise water, great for snorkeling and diving. No visit to Salento would be complete with going hiking in Porto Selvaggio, followed by a magnificent dip in the sea. If you want to discover Porto Selvaggio and its surroundings over a few days, stay at At the Aia, just a 10 minutes’ drive, or half hour bike ride from this magnificent natural park. Book your room today.
