Taranto

Also known as the "City of the Two Seas" for its position between the Mar Grande and the Mar Piccolo, Taranto offers a unique experience to visitors thanks to its rich historical heritage and natural wonders.

What to See in Taranto?

If you are on vacation in Apulia and want to visit Taranto, the best things to see are:

• Aragonese Castle
• The Swinging Bridge of Taranto
• Temple of Poseidon
• Cathedral of San Cataldo
• Church of San Domenico Maggiore
• National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTA)
• Spartan Museum of Taranto

Aragonese Castle

The Aragonese Castle of Taranto, also known as Castel Sant'Angelo, is one of the most imposing and historically significant structures in the city.

Its construction began in 1481, under the reign of Ferdinand II of Aragon, with the intent of strengthening the city's defenses against the incursions of the Turks and other maritime powers of the Mediterranean.

Visits to the Aragonese Castle

The Aragonese Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours that allow exploring its various sections and learning more about its fascinating history.

During guided tours, visitors can explore the towers, walls, inner courtyards, and prisons, as well as enjoy splendid panoramic views of the Ionian Sea and the city of Taranto.

Visit Information

• Opening hours: The castle is generally open all year round. Opening hours may vary, so it is advisable to check the official website or contact the castle before visiting.
• Tickets: Entry to the castle is free, but guided tours may require advance reservation. Guided tours are available in Italian and sometimes in other languages.
• Duration of the visit: Guided tours last about an hour and a half.
• Accessibility: The castle is partially accessible to people with mobility disabilities, but some areas may be difficult to reach due to stairs and narrow passages.

The Swinging Bridge of Taranto

The Swinging Bridge of Taranto, officially called the Ponte San Francesco di Paola, is one of the modern symbols of the city.

Inaugurated in 1887, the bridge was designed to connect the island of the Borgo Antico with the mainland of the Borgo Nuovo, separated by the navigable canal that joins the Mar Grande to the Mar Piccolo.

The Swinging Bridge is an extraordinary work of engineering: it is a bascule bridge that can rotate 90 degrees to allow the passage of military and merchant ships. The original bridge, built of iron, was replaced by a steel structure in the 1950s, improving its functionality and safety.

Visits to the Swinging Bridge

The bridge is open to pedestrian and vehicle traffic, but the most fascinating moments are those when the bridge is opened for the passage of ships.

Opening hours vary depending on the needs of the Navy, which manages the bridge.

Temple of Poseidon

The Temple of Poseidon, also known as the Doric Temple, is one of the oldest and most important archaeological sites in Taranto. Dating back to the 6th century BC, this temple is a significant testimony to the Greek presence in the region.

It was built by the Spartan colonists who founded the city of Taranto, known in Greek as Taras. Dedicated to Poseidon, the god of the sea, the temple reflects the importance of the sea to the city, which was a major port and maritime center in antiquity.

Visit Information:

• Opening hours: The site of the Temple of Poseidon is generally accessible all year round. As it is not a fenced area, it can be visited at any time of the day.
• Tickets: Entry to the site is free.
• Duration of the visit: The visit to the Temple of Poseidon can last from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the visitor's interest in archaeology and ancient history.
• Accessibility: The site is easily accessible on foot, located in the historic center of Taranto, close to other places of interest.

Cathedral of San Cataldo

The Cathedral of San Cataldo is the main church of Taranto and one of the most important places of worship in the city.

Founded in the 11th century, the cathedral is dedicated to San Cataldo, the patron saint of Taranto. Its construction began in the Romanesque style under Archbishop Drogone, and was completed in 1071.

Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several modifications and restorations, especially during the Baroque period.

Visits to the Cathedral

• Opening hours: The cathedral is open to the public every day. Hours may vary, so it is advisable to check on-site or contact the parish for updated information.
• Tickets: Entry is free, but donations are welcome for the maintenance of the church.
• Duration of the visit: The visit can last from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on interest in artistic and architectural details.
• Accessibility: The Cathedral is accessible to people with mobility disabilities.

Church of San Domenico Maggiore

The Church of San Domenico Maggiore is one of the oldest religious buildings in Taranto, founded in the 13th century.

The church was built by the Dominican friars and has undergone various interventions over the centuries, which have altered its original appearance.

Visits to the Church

• Opening hours: The church is open during worship hours and for tourist visits. It is advisable to check specific hours with the parish.
• Tickets: Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.
• Duration of the visit: The visit can last from 20 to 45 minutes.
• Accessibility: The church is partially accessible, with some areas more difficult to reach for people with disabilities.

National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MARTA)

The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, known as MARTA, is one of the most important museums in Italy for its extensive collection of artifacts from Magna Graecia.

Founded in 1887, the museum is housed in the ancient convent of San Pasquale di Baylon, which has been expanded and renovated to accommodate the archaeological collections.

Visits to the Museum

• Opening Hours: Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Closed on Mondays.
• Tickets: Entrance fees vary, with reductions for students, groups, and seniors.
• Visit Duration: The visit can last from 1 to 3 hours, depending on interest in the collections.
• Accessibility: The museum is fully accessible to people with mobility disabilities.

Spartan Museum of Taranto

The Spartan Museum of Taranto, dedicated to Spartan history and culture, is a relatively new museum that offers insights into the Greek foundation of Taranto by the Spartans. The museum is located in the heart of the old city and provides an overview of the life of the ancient settlers.

The museum displays archaeological finds, reconstructions, and informational panels that illustrate the history of the Spartans in Taranto. Among the most interesting items are weapons, everyday tools, and religious artifacts.

Museum Visits

• Opening Hours: Open daily with variable hours. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the museum for updated information.
• Tickets: Entry is generally paid, with discounts for groups and school parties.
• Visit Duration: The visit can last from 1 to 2 hours.
• Accessibility: The museum is partially accessible, with some areas potentially difficult for people with mobility disabilities.

Things to Do in Taranto: Beaches, Experiences, Events

Taranto offers a range of wonders: from beautiful beaches for relaxation, to local events and festivals that animate the city, to culinary experiences that will make you fall in love with the flavors of Apulia.

Local Events and Festivals

Taranto is a vibrant city that hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. These events celebrate local culture, religious traditions, and the city's rich history.

• Holy Week: The Holy Week processions in Taranto are among the most impressive in Italy. Local brotherhoods parade through the streets in traditional attire, creating a solemn and fascinating atmosphere.
• Feast of San Cataldo: Celebrated on May 10th, this feast is dedicated to the city's patron saint. It includes processions, religious events, and fireworks.
• MediTa Festival: A music and arts festival held in the summer, attracting national and international artists for concerts, theatrical performances, and artistic shows.
• Boat Tours: Explore the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande with a boat tour. These tours offer the opportunity to see the city from a unique perspective and visit small islands and surrounding natural areas.
• Guided Tours: Participate in guided tours of the old city, discovering historical alleys, ancient churches, and noble palaces. Local guides offer thematic tours that include archaeology, military history, and art.
• Swinging Bridge: Witness the opening of the Swinging Bridge, a fascinating event that allows the passage of military ships. This bridge connects the island of the old city with the new borough and is a symbol of Taranto.
• Culinary Tours: Join a culinary tour to discover the authentic flavors of Tarantine cuisine. These tours often include visits to local markets, tastings of typical products, and meals in traditional restaurants.

Visiting the Best Beaches in Taranto:

• San Pietro in Bevagna Beach: Located about 40 kilometers from Taranto, this beach is famous for its white sand dunes and clear waters. It is ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
• Marina di Pulsano: Known for its fine sand coves and turquoise waters. It is one of the most popular seaside destinations in the province of Taranto.
• Marina di Lizzano: This beach offers a long stretch of white sand and clear waters, perfect for those looking for tranquility and an unspoiled natural environment.
• Campomarino di Maruggio: Campomarino is a much-loved seaside resort, with fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear sea. The area is also known for its dunes and Mediterranean scrub.
• Lido Gandoli: This beach is very popular with Taranto residents due to its proximity to the city and its natural beauty. It is perfect for those looking for convenience and a lively environment.
• Castellaneta Marina: Nestled in a lush pine forest, this seaside resort offers wide sandy beaches and clear water. It is perfect for those looking for a more natural and less crowded environment.
• Salina dei Monaci: Located near the Torre Colimena nature reserve, this beach is a place of rare beauty, characterized by sand dunes and an unspoiled natural environment.

What to See in the Province of Taranto?

The province of Taranto offers a wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here is a selection of the most interesting places to visit in the province:

• Grottaglie: Known as the "City of Ceramics," Grottaglie is famous for its ancient artisanal traditions in ceramic making.
• Martina Franca: Located in the Itria Valley, Martina Franca is renowned for its Baroque architecture and famous music festival.
• Massafra: Known for its ravines (canyons) and rock churches, Massafra offers a unique experience in nature and history.
• Manduria: Famous for Primitivo wine, Manduria is a city with a rich history dating back to the Messapian era.