Salento Italy. Route around Italy. What's interesting in Salento

What's happened Salento, Italy? Do you think this is a city in Italy? Perhaps a province, locality or historical site? If you assume the answer is “Yes” to any of the questions above, then you are completely wrong. Because Salento is …

Salento (Italy) is so-so historical-geographical area in the Puglia region, which is also called Italian heel .

Now with three attempts guess why named " heel »?

I believe that most of you know the correct answer. Moreover, it lies on the surface for everyone who imagines the geographical location of Italy.

We have already partially answered this question in the previous section, and to be more precise, Salento occupies the southernmost part in Italy. Specifically, Salento includes:

• Coast of Brindisi;
• Gulf of Taranto;
• The extreme point of the Italian Mediterranean – Leuca.

Thus, Salento is located on two Italian seas: and Ionian. Its territory occupies almost 6,000 sq. km. and includes:

• Completely all Province of Lecce;
• A small part province of Brindisi;
• Part Province of Taranto.

The coastline of Salento extends at 250 km. What, in simple terms, means line of beaches for 250 km .

Not bad, right?

How to get there?

You can get to Salento (Italy) in many different ways :

• By plane(Brindisi Airport);
• By train(in Lecce, Brindisi and Taranto);
• By bus(almost any destination is possible here);
• Own car.

If everything is clear with public modes of transport, then for the option of owning a car, we will add some clarifications. ( Quite small).

In order to get to Salento, you will need a basic A14 motorway which begins from Bologna and takes you to Bari(the capital of the Puglia region), and then to the town of Massafra (it is marked in red on the map).

After that, choose the SS7 superstrada, which will take you to Taranto.

Sea in Salento: which one to choose?

You have a huge choice: Adriatic or Ionic.

In this article we will not go into. The only thing I would like to note is that The Ionian Sea has always been considered warmer than the Adriatic.

Fabulous Ionian Sea

For everything else, everything is in your hands!

What's interesting in Salento?

It would be easier to ask what is there NOT interesting?

Because, wherever you look, you would like to know, see, touch, taste and evaluate everything to your taste.

To that "everything" relate:

• Beautiful southern nature;

• Original the (almost North African) architecture of many buildings and structures (including the famous trulli, which are located on the road to Salento);

• Endless groves;
• Indescribable a wealth of seafood;

• Unforgettable cuisine of Salento and Puglia;
• And, of course, itself SEA!

Sea of ​​Salento (in particular Ionian) will never be forgotten!

The water in it is so transparent, crystal clear, warm and gentle that it will leave indifferent only... a mountain lover ( who can't stand the sea).

It is impossible to write these words without nostalgic sadness. You know Why?

Because everything a few days ago we returned from Salento. From the blessed Ionian Sea, where they swam and sunbathed until the day of departure, i.e. until October 20.

You still have a question: where to go to the sea in October?

Relax on Ionica in mid-October 2014

A route through the southernmost part of Italy, its “heel”, to where two seas merge - sunny, hospitable Apulia.

Welcome to a land where one city may be made entirely of caves, another of tiny cone-shaped houses made of stone, and yet another a labyrinth of narrow streets winding past snow-white buildings whose smooth corners are more reminiscent of Morocco or Greece.
Welcome to a region where loaves of bread are almost a meter in circumference, the locals have developed their own brand of antique architecture, and everything is so far off the beaten path that you could go a whole week without encountering another tourist.

Route: Bari - Trani - Polignano a Mare - Alberobello - Ostuni - Grottaglie - Lecce - Galatina - Gallipoli - Brindisi - more than 550 kilometers

Features of planning a trip to Puglia

Italy's "heel" requires close attention. See and feel all the charm of Puglia it won't work in 7 days, especially if you do not plan to use the services of a guide. In this case, you will have to choose: explore the northern part of the region or sunbathe on the beaches of Salento.
Minimum term, during which you can “run” around Puglia – 10–14 days. In two weeks you can enjoy the beauty of Lecce and Ostuni, see the fabulous Alberobello, stroll along the promenades of Gallipoli, try all the wines and local delicacies, and still have some time left for the beach.
Ideal option – 21 days, when you can leisurely stroll through the winding streets of Apulian towns, get acquainted with the sights and enjoy excellent cuisine without rushing anywhere. In general, plunge headlong into that very slow life that is so inherent in these regions.

Advice: If you want an individual travel itinerary or need help choosing a tour, contact the experts SmartTrip. They will offer you the optimal solution that will meet your holiday wishes and you will not have to waste precious time.
LEAVE A REQUEST >>>

Ways to get around Puglia

The simplest and most convenient way, giving complete freedom of action, of course, rented car. No schedules or exact routes - I go wherever I want. For those who don’t want to drive on vacation or simply don’t know how to drive, there is, in our opinion, the ideal way to travel around Puglia - personal guide by car. In this case, in addition to comfortable trips, you will find fascinating stories from the life of the region, stories about its inhabitants: saints, emperors and mere mortals, detailed information about the sights, dishes and shopping in the region. As the best guide to the "heel" of Italy SmartTrip recommends licensed guide in Puglia – Evgeniy Selishchev.

Advice: To find out the details of your guided trip, all you need to do is

We will definitely contact you to discuss the details of your trip and offer the most convenient options.

Otherwise, you can always use public transport to travel around Puglia. You can reach major cities like Ostuni, Lecce, Brindisi and others from Bari go by train. For example, travel time from Bari to Ostuni will take about an hour, ticket prices start from 5.50 €.
You can always get to smaller settlements by bus. The region has a fairly well-developed bus service, so select the desired route and buy tickets won't be difficult.
The journey must begin from the capital of Apulia -. You should not lose sight of it, if only because the city is home to the Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, known to all Christians as one of the main pilgrimages for believers from all over the world. From Bari you can easily reach nearby cities: Trani And Polignano a Mare, see the mysterious legacy of Emperor Frederick II - Castel del Monte. And of course, see the only street in the world “with ears” - orchiette pasta - the pride of Apulian gastronomy.

SEARCH FOR AIR TICKETS AND HOTELS IN BARI

Trani

The city of Trani, located north of Bari, acquired its modern appearance between the 11th and 12th centuries. Its strategic position on the Adriatic coast made it an important port from which the knights' ships sailed on the Crusades to the Holy Land, and a thriving center of trade that attracted merchants from the Mediterranean, with which Apulia maintained close diplomatic relations.
The center of old Trani is a charming network of streets with beautiful architecture, built around a picturesque fishing port, which has its own bars, cafes and restaurants. There is a cafe two steps from the embankment Morrisei(Piazza Sedile San Marco, 6) with delicious coffee, charming owners and a magnificent view of the sea and Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Pilgrim. From here, towards the northern edge of the port, you can walk to the cathedral, a fine example of Romanesque architecture, whose creamy white sandstone walls create a stunning contrast with the blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Cathedral of St. Nicholas the Pilgrim, standing on the embankment, is one of the best in Italy. The temple was built in 1143 according to the plan of a basilica with three apses and a large crypt. Its triangular roof is supported by strong walls dotted with windows, creating the feeling of a fortress. The west end includes a round window and a beautiful entrance, the bronze doors of which by Barisano di Trani have now been moved inside. On the south side rises a majestic 60-meter tower, added in 1239. But after spending a little time in Trani, one realizes that the cathedral is just the cherry on top of an amazing cake.
Walking 100 meters east from the cathedral along the sea, you can come to another architectural miracle of Trani: the castle of Emperor Frederick II, as if growing from the depths of the sea. The square-shaped castle with strong towers at each corner was built in 1233. Over time, additional buildings clung to it, like shells on the rocks. The fortress moat, filled with sea water, was eventually filled in, and in the early 1800s the castle became a prison. Only in 1974 it was decided to “liberate the castle” and return it to its original appearance. The last restoration work was completed not so long ago and now it is open to the public, and the castle often hosts concerts, art exhibitions and other cultural events.
The best time to come to Trani is in the morning, walking along its streets until lunchtime. When you're hungry, stop by a restaurant for lunch Il Melograno (Via Giovanni Bovio, 189) with amazing cuisine from chef Domenico Mondelli, based on seafood, wines and delicious desserts.
If, after a morning walk around Trani and a hearty lunch, the desire to discover something new is still not satisfied, head inland from the coast to another magnificent structure of Frederick II - Castel del Monte. The travel time will take 40–45 minutes, but after traveling along the road leading through agricultural lands, you will be rewarded with picturesque views of the unique and mysterious castle of one of the most extraordinary rulers of the Middle Ages.
Castel del Monte was built in the 13th century, during the Swabian-Norman rule in Apulia, by order of Frederick II. This is perhaps the most famous building that the emperor ordered to be built during his long reign. Since 1996, Castel del Monte has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The castle is an unusual combination of architectural elements from northern Europe and the East. It is built in the shape of an octagon, each corner, in turn, is crowned by an octagonal tower. Despite its status as a castle, there is no moat or other structures to protect the walls. The purpose of Castel del Monte still remains a mystery and many theories and conjectures have been put forward on this topic. The most common version is that it was a military fortress. Some historians claim that the castle was used by the emperor to relax after falconry, while others support the idea that it was a temple for religious services or a place of work for scientists. But most scientists defend the opinion that it was the largest astronomical observatory in the Middle Ages.
Despite many years of neglect and looting, the castle was restored. Of course, now we can only guess about the richness of the interior decoration, but if you have imagination or a good guide, you have a chance to feel the grandeur and power of Castel del Monte. Today the completely restored castle is open to the public. (opening hours: March 1 to September 30 from 10.15 to 19.45; from October 1 to February 28 from 9.00 to 18.45. Ticket price - 5 euros, for visitors under the age of 18 and over 65 years of age, admission is free). The image of the castle has been printed on Italian postage stamps more than once, and since 2002 it has also appeared on the 1 euro cent coin printed in Italy.

HOTELS IN TRANI ON THE MAP

Polignano a Mare

Perched on top of a 20-metre limestone cliff above the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic, this sparkling jewel of the Itria Valley coastline lives up to its name, as in reality it is simply impossible to be closer to the sea.
The origins of this stunning place date back to the 4th century BC, when Greek settlers founded Naples. The city flourished under Roman rule and was important enough to Emperor Trajan that he founded the Via Traiana, built between 108-110 AD, right through the city. Remains of an ancient Roman road, including a bridge at Lama Monachile can be seen if you move north from the historical center.
Tiny old town entered through a gate Porta Vecchia, combines charming whitewashed streets with ancient churches, such as Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. You can easily get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets, but this should not bother you. In Polignano it’s always like this, and before you notice that you’ve lost your way, you’ll first reach one of the three panoramic terraces, which offer breathtaking views of the beautiful Adriatic Sea and coastline.
After exploring the city, head to the blue flag beach, located just a few minutes' walk from the city center, lapped by turquoise waters and surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
Polignano has all the necessary ingredients for an ideal holiday: cozy hotels, many family cafes and restaurants. Two main places you can't miss: cafes Il Super Mago Del Gelo (Piazza Garibaldi Giuseppe, 22), thanks to him Polignano became the ice cream capital of Puglia and Grotta Palazzese (Via Narciso, 59), thundered throughout the world as a restaurant with the best view.
But perhaps the biggest “attraction” of the city is not the food and views. And the fact that it was this city that gave the world the great Domenico Modugno, who wrote and sang many beautiful songs, including the world famous hit Volare. The locals are very proud of the maestro, which is well deserved. And, walking along the streets that became the inspiration for such a wonderful song, you will find yourself singing: "Volare, oh, oh... Cantare, oh, oh, oh, oh... Nel blu dipinto di blu... felice di stare lassù..."
But Apulia would not be Apulia if it did not have everything in abundance. There are even more than enough world-famous stars here. And if anyone is called a patriot of his homeland, it will be Albano Carrisi. True, when talking about his merits, the international star is modest and calls himself simply “the ambassador of Apulia.” But when it comes to the “heels” of Italy, there is no time for embarrassment; the singer can talk endlessly about his native land.

HOTELS IN POLINANO A MARE ON THE MAP

Alberobello

A small but remarkable city in the southeast of Puglia in the province of Bari in the heart of the Itrian Valley, Alberobello is located between two hills. The new city on the eastern hill is easily distinguished by its modern architecture. The western part is the Old Town, entirely consisting of trullo - an open-air museum. In 1996, Alberobello was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The landscapes around Alberobello are enchanting and magical, and are in themselves one of the main attractions of the city. The oldest buildings date back to the 16th century. The history of the appearance of houses, as if straight from the pages of a children's book about gnomes and sorcerers, has little in common with fairy tales. In those distant times, King Ferdinand of Aragon of Naples donated one of his possessions to Count Acquaviva of Conversano for his valiant and faithful service. It was possible to own land, but not to build houses on it without the approval of His Highness. For every small building, it was necessary to pay a tax to the king's treasury. But the smart Apulians found their way out of this situation, deciding to build houses that would be easy to destroy in the event of a king’s visit, using only dry stones without cement for construction.
Initially, peasants lived in these houses, but now trullo have become a real tourist attraction in Puglia, and all visitors to the region should definitely see them. The construction of a trullo is very simple. The house is built exclusively from stones using a special technology: the main part of the house is laid out in the shape of a circle, and it is crowned with a dome roof. The walls were always whitewashed with lime, which protected the house from moisture. The roofs were decorated with religious, astrological symbols and amulets.
You can learn more about the technology and history of trulli in Alberobello by looking at shop of the hereditary trullar Giuseppe Maffei (Via Duca d'Aosta, 8). His workshop features trullo miniatures and original souvenirs, so don't rush to buy Chinese magnets as you walk up one of the most famous and frequently photographed streets in the world - Via Monte Pertica, all the most valuable and unique can only be found at Signor Giuseppe. Stroll up the famous street. On it, at the address Via Monte Pertica, 9 there is an equally famous house from which the popularity of Alberobello began to flourish these days.
Mistress of trullo signora Maria Claudia Caporaso Already a legend in itself, it was she who made a lot of efforts to ensure that her hometown flourished and gained popularity around the world from the USA to Japan. Next to the living quarters of the house there is a whistle and textile shop Matarrese- another important point in the program of souvenir hunters. Linen towels, clay whistles and original figurines are original works of local craftsmen, created in a single copy. You can learn about the history of the original houses and the city of Alberobello by visiting the only two-story building in the world trullo Sovrano (Piazza Sacramento, 10. Entrance fee – 1.5 euros). The former house of the priest of Cataldo Perta is nowadays used as a museum of history and life. During the summer months it also serves as a theater, hosting numerous cultural events such as plays, musical performances and poetry readings. Local crafts such as paintings, handmade baskets, stone figurines, jewelry made from local metals and home textiles can be purchased in the old town.
Alberobello also produces wonderful wines and olive oil, and traditional local dishes include sweet almonds and macaroons. One of the best gastronomy stores in Via Monte S. Michele, 37 belongs Maria Concetta Marco. Here you can buy delicious olive oil, olive paste and other delicacies that can only be tasted in Puglia.

HOTELS IN ALBEROBELLO ON THE MAP

Initially, back in the Paleolithic period, the area was inhabited by tribes of hunters who built their houses in caves. Simple dwellings are still found during archaeological excavations to this day. The fact that people inhabited these areas millions of years ago was confirmed by a unique find of archaeologists: the skeleton of a woman, who later received the name “Woman from Ostuni”. The remains were discovered in Agnano Cave and belonged to a woman who was pregnant at the time of death. Scientists were able to establish the age of the skeleton; as it turned out, at the time of its discovery it was 25,000 years old.
Ostuni was home to Messapians, Lombards and Romans, but it was only under the Spanish rule of Isabella of Aragon that the city reached its peak of economic and cultural development. During the reign of the Spaniards, the fortress walls were strengthened. In 1539, the Posella and San Leonardo towers were built along the coastline, protecting the city from Turkish attacks. These towers (still existing, including Posella, Pilon, Villanova and others) were constantly guarded and gave signs to each other using lights.
Ostuni, also known as the “White City” or Città bianca, got its second name from the snow-white walls of the houses of the historical center, built entirely of limestone. The use of lime dates back to the Middle Ages, it was easy to obtain and brought more light to the narrow streets that make up the city center. In addition, lime was used in the 17th century to prevent the spread of plague. Here you can see many examples of ancient architecture, especially the walls, the cathedral and Column of Saint Oronzo. The cathedral is located on top of a hill, surrounded and protected by the houses of the old quarters. It can only be reached by one road connecting Cathedral and Piazza San Oronzo. This narrow winding road is very typical of the area and is lined with many small shops. You can take scenic walks around the city on roads that offer exceptional views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
It’s worth staying in Ostuni for a couple or three days to explore the nearby towns and villages. You can stay in a hotel in the city itself Ostuni Palace 10 minutes walk from the main square, with panoramic views of the hysterical center. Or directly in the old town, in a luxury hotel Relais La Sommità, one of the best hotels in Puglia. In addition to the magnificent view and comfortable rooms, special attention should be paid to restaurant Il Cielo under the leadership of one of the youngest chefs, Michelin star holder, Sebastian Lombardi. And here's why: Puglia residents joke that if you want to be forever disappointed in Apulian cuisine, eat in Ostuni. Gastronomic arrogants do not recognize either pasta or other dishes and Ostuni, in principle. But the restaurant Il Cielo is the only exception, in which the tables are occupied even on weekdays - the secret of success is that Signor Sebastian is from Andria, where they not only love to cook, but also know how to cook.
Around Ostuni you can find many masserias where you can come for a few days or stay for the whole holiday, they are so charming. A masseria in Italy is a fortified farm, typical of the southern regions of the country and especially of Apulia.

HOTELS IN OSTUNI ON THE MAP

Grottaglie

Those who consider themselves to be in the category of travelers who collect plates rather than holiday magnets should definitely visit Grottaglia - the city of graffiti and potters. The nice town, a 40-minute drive from Ostuni, is famous for its ceramics, and local artisans have been perfecting their art since the 15th century. Today, about 60 workshops are located on the streets around the potters' quarter between Via Francesco Crispi, Via Ennio And Via Papa Leone XIII. Their famous plates, decorated with the image of a rooster - a symbol of courage and good luck, amulets against evil spirits - pumi cones and pomegranates, which are found in every home in Italy “for good luck”, huge terracotta vases and tiles can be found everywhere.
One of the city's most famous potters is La Grota family. Their workshop can be found at Via Papa Leone XIII, building 9. The dynasty of potters dates back to 1836, passing on the skills and secrets of craftsmanship from father to son. Today, Signor Antonio works in the workshop. Like his father, his grandfather and great-grandfather use terracotta from local quarries to make large objects, for example, amphoras for storing oil, and clay from Tuscany is used for elegant works: the finest plates, lady figures with mustaches. The paints used to paint the products are only natural: plant sap, tree bark, fruits - everything is exactly the same as centuries ago.
Hand-painted wall panels, plates and candlesticks evoke an irresistible desire to buy everything at once. Be prepared for the fact that prices for ceramics start from 20–30 euros (for the simplest specimen) and can reach several hundred. But believe me, it's worth it. Come to Grottaglie and see for yourself.

Salento

Where the hills of the Itrian Valley end and the flat landscapes begin, sandwiched between two seas: the Adriatic from the east and the Ionian from the west, Salento begins in the southernmost part of the “heel” of Italy. For ease of understanding, take a map of Puglia (or all of Italy) and a pair of scissors. Start cutting off from Taranto and head northeast directly through Ostuni to the Adriatic Sea. What remains is the Salento Peninsula.
Here are the most charming cities of Puglia: pearls on the seashore - Gallipoli and Otranto, sophisticated and luxurious seaside Leuca. It is full of small sleepy towns that are not included in the popular tourist routes, but are not without their special charm of untouched historical centers and traditional atmosphere: Specca, Martano, Presicce and many others. Salento's historical ties to Greece are strong here, going back thousands of years. The local dialect "Grika" and many authentic gastronomic and religious traditions have Greek roots, which are often celebrated at various festivals, including the popular and well-known Notte della Taranta.
Salento's coastline is long and varied and is an attraction in itself. It has the most beautiful beaches and a stunning rocky coast - which is why Salento is perfect for lovers of the sea and beach holidays. From the southernmost point near Leuca to Gallipoli, magical golden sands and clear azure waters stretch. In the east, the Adriatic coast is more diverse, and here you can find sandy beaches, karst caves, chalk cliffs and sea lagoons.
If you are looking for a holiday destination with an excellent climate, impeccable beaches, beautiful historical cities, excellent food and wine, where the whole family will have fun - come to Salento.
A trip to Salento should begin and end in the “golden city” - Lecce. Don’t rush to get to the sea faster, enjoy the treasures of the cities, the tastes of local cuisine, in a word, enjoy life under the sun of Apulia.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli is one of those wonderful towns in the province of Lecce that should not be missed when visiting the Salento region. Its name comes from the Greek "Kalé polis", which means "beautiful city". The city is located on the coast of the Ionian Sea and is divided into two parts: the new and larger one consists of modern buildings, clubs, shops and business centers. The old part of Gallipoli occupies an island surrounded by fortified walls, which is connected to the mainland by an old bridge from the 6th century. Next to the bridge stands the Aragonese Castle, built in the 13th century, which is one of the few castles whose walls are washed by the sea.
Gallipoli is great for travelers who want to lose themselves in the winding, picturesque streets. The historic city center is mostly built of white stone and is a maze of stunning Baroque buildings including St Agatha's Cathedral, built in 1629. Of particular historical interest is the oldest in Italy Greek fountain(reconstructed in 1560).
While walking along the small streets of the Old Town, be sure to look into small shops with local gastronomy and wines, as well as souvenir shops where you can buy original gifts: from elegant mother-of-pearl jewelry to inexpensive, but very high-quality, comfortable, and at the same time cute shoes. Pay attention to the store Il Sandalo Artigiana le Salentino (Via Antonietta De Pace, 18), selling sandals (30 euros) and bags (from 20 euros) handmade from genuine leather. Also in the historical center there is a small but very nice fish market, which you will find right under the bridge. The market is a must-visit for all seafood lovers - the freshest sea urchin caviar is sold here.
With its many white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, Gallipoli has become one of the favorite tourist destinations in southern Italy. Most of the beautiful beaches are located outside the city center, but "Seno della Purità", meaning "Immaculate Breast", lies within the fortress walls. This is a cute little beach where you can take a break from the heat.
After your water treatments, climb the fortress walls and order a seafood lunch on the restaurant terrace Il Bastione (Riviera Nazario Sauro, 28) under the leadership of chef Donate Greco. Don’t be surprised if they serve Orchiete pasta with mussels and Parmesan on the table - this is an “author’s touch” - the restaurant chef is sure that he knows better how to highlight the sweetness of the mussels with the help of sharp cheese. Fans of Greco's cuisine included Luciano Pavarotti, Alain Delon and many other world-famous stars, as evidenced by the “board of honor” at the entrance to the restaurant.
The city at night also promises a lot of pleasure. Numerous discos and nightclubs can be found both in the city and beyond. The evening usually starts quite early, almost immediately after lunch, so spend it on the beach where you can have an aperitif or cocktail right by the sea.
If you are confused by the relatively hectic life of Gallipoli, but want to spend your vacation in such a way that, on the one hand, it is quiet and calm, and on the other hand, there is always the opportunity to get out and hang out, choose a charming town for a long holiday in this area Porto Cesareo. It houses one of the few hotels with its own beach, Bacino Grande, which is very rare for Puglia. The hotel has bright, spacious rooms, without designer frills or special chic, but very comfortable and cozy. Thanks to its developed infrastructure, proximity to the sea and low cost of living, Bacino Grande is an excellent option for a long-term holiday with children.

You can only book a hotel room through SmartTrip travel agents
LEAVE A REQUEST >>>

But even if you prefer to stay in other Porto Cesareo hotels, be sure to visit Bacino Grande for a restaurant on the beach with one of the best views of the sea and delicious cuisine, of course, from the freshest seafood and fish.

HOTELS IN GALLIPOLI ON THE MAP

Galatina

Another pearl in the necklace of Puglia is Galatina - a city in the province of Lecce, located 20 kilometers south of Lecce and 20 kilometers from the Adriatic coast. Most likely, Galatina existed during the Roman Empire, but the first documentary evidence of the city dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was a Byzantine and Greek colony. In those days the city was called San Pietro from Galatina in honor of the saint who walked from here to Rome. This name remained until the unification of Italy in 1861.
Like most towns in Salento, Galatina retains much evidence of Greek colonization, although it reached its peak of development during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, when beautiful churches and palaces were built. Among the most important buildings are Palaces of Vernaleone, Galluccio-Mezio And Gorgoni. Visit the state Kavoti Museum (Piazza Dante Alighieri, 5), which features works by local artists including Pietro Cavoti and Gaetano Martinez, and paintings by medieval painters. In St. Peter's Square there is a large Church in honor of Saints Peter and Paul, built by the architect Zimbalo between 1633 and 1663 in the Baroque style. It still retains its original paintings and interior decoration.
While in Galatina, you should definitely take time to explore the beautiful Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria, one of the most beautiful in Salento, built in the Romanesque style. Like the cathedral, the church is built from pietra leccese, a golden-hued tuff stone. The façade of the temple is decorated with the coat of arms of the Orsini del Balzo, the family under whose tutelage the construction of the church was carried out from 1384 to 1391. 1391. An important element of the facade is also a carved panel depicting the figure of Christ and the twelve apostles. The church contains two relics: the finger of St. Catherine and the breast of St. Agatha, but still it was not they who made it famous, although many legends and myths are connected with them, and the interior is covered with frescoes by Francesco Aretzky and paintings by other masters depicting the history of the Virgin Mary, St. Catherine, scenes of the apocalypse, the Old and New Testaments.
Walking through Galatina, tourists are literally haunted by the sweet aroma of fresh baked goods, which is not surprising. There are more than 50 pastry shops in the city and they all specialize mostly in the delicious Salento specialty - pasticciotto. The pastry filled with lemon custard was invented in the 18th century by Alessandro Ascalone, a pâtisseur from Galatina. His candy store Ascalone (Via Vittorio Emanuele, 17) and these days it is open to those with a sweet tooth, but we recommend not limiting yourself to just one cake and visiting a pastry shop Eros (Piazza San Pietro, 9), where you can enjoy the taste of magnificent pastichotto, sipping espressino (real strong Italian espresso with a drop of milk), admiring one of the best views of the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, finally and irrevocably falling in love with sunny and hospitable Apulia.

HOTELS IN GALATIN ON THE MAP

To complete the route around Puglia, if the goal is to go around the entire “heel” and see all the cities described above and not only, it is best in Brindisi. You can get to Brindisi airport in an hour and a half to two hours from the beaches or coast of Maria de Leuca. Otherwise, you will have to return to Bari (the option is relatively cheaper, but much more tiring).

Most of the Italian coastline is occupied by beaches. This is where every person dreams of getting, because there is crystal clear sea water, picturesque towns, ancient fortresses, as well as rocks, gardens and palm trees. What else do you need for a good rest?

One of the best beaches in Italy are the beaches of the Salento Peninsula. The Italians say that relaxing in Salento means healing your body and soul, and they are 100 percent right. This place is ideal for people who love privacy and comfort. It offers excellent service in hotels http://ambassador-hotel-pesaro.com/reservation/ and delicious food, as well as various excursions and entertainment, so many temptations are concentrated almost in one place! It is worth noting that at this resort you have the opportunity to splash in the waters of two seas, the Ionian and Adriatic.


The beaches can be both rocky and sandy, despite these differences, they are united by clear, azure water. Salento has very clean air, due to the fact that there are no industrial enterprises in this place, residents are engaged in growing organic products and are very proud of this work. This is probably why they are all in a great mood and welcome guests with cordiality. Olive oil, cheeses are produced here and winemaking is developing. These products are then exported all over the world. The cuisine of Salento is a separate topic, delicious pasta, everyone’s favorite pizza, delicious seafood, sweets, all this and many other dishes are offered to tourists in the restaurants of the peninsula. Here you can relax and enjoy what you eat, and you can easily lose those extra pounds during diving classes or hiking in Salento.


Salento is also famous for its natural park, two lakes and architectural masterpieces. The town of Lecce is the main administrative center. It preserves the heritage and culture of many peoples, so tourists come here who want to get acquainted with history. Despite the fact that many objects have been restored, there are those that have not been touched by human hands. This cute town is famous for its temples; there are impressive sculptures and various monuments almost everywhere. Those with a sweet tooth will like it here, since it is in Lecce that there is a famous pastry shop, which is located in Piazza Sant'Oronzo. The locals say their desserts are finger-licking good, and they are right. Peace and tranquility reign in Salento; many tourists, having been here once, promise to return again to feel the carefree and joy of life again.

The Salento Peninsula is located at the southeastern tip of the Italian region of Puglia and is known as the “heel” of the Italian “boot” that separates the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Its territory includes the province of Lecce, most of Brindisi and part of Taranto. The peninsula is also known as Terra d'Otranto, and the ancient Greeks called it Messapia - from the Proto-Indo-European language this name can be translated as “among the waters”. In ancient times, it was the Messapians who formed the basis of the population of the peninsula.

The nearest international airports are Brindisi and Bari (the latter is outside Salento, but not far away). In addition, Salento and Bari are connected by a highway, and Lecce has a large railway station. There are also numerous ports on the peninsula - in Taranto, Brindisi, Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, Otranto, Campomarino di Maruggio.

In recent years, Salento has gained recognition as a holiday destination. On its territory there are numerous resorts, primarily on the coast, as well as interesting landscapes, for example, Lake Alimini on the Adriatic coast or the Portoselvaggio Natural Park on the Ionian. The soil here is very fertile - olives and grapes are grown on the peninsula, the products of which are then exported throughout the world.

Salento's beaches are incredibly varied - from sandy to rocky. But all are distinguished by their cleanliness and crystalline sea with warm water. Among the most popular resorts are Ostuni, Casalabate, Oria, Ugento, Manduria, Porto Cesareo, Gallipoli, Torre del Orso, Otranto, Santa Maria di Leuca, Lizzano, Pulsano, Santa Cesaria Terme.

In addition, the coast of Salento is literally dotted with observation towers, the first of which were built by the Normans to protect against pirate attacks. Most of the surviving towers date back mainly to the 15th and 16th centuries and, unfortunately, are in poor condition.

Despite this, Salento remains a land full of historical, cultural and architectural monuments, which, together with the beautiful sea, attract millions of tourists.

Villa with pool Golfo Verde code CL-001
Peculiarities: gated residence on the beach, 80 m to the beach, swimming pool, suitable for families with children
Price:
Low season: € 5.400.00 / week
High season: € 8.300.00 / week

The website shows average prices. Specific price quotes are available upon request.
Please send requests for price clarification to the following email address: [email protected]: [email protected]

Minimum rental period:
Low season: 1 week
High season (July, August): 1 month

During high season, check-in is early in the month.

A brief description of:
living area: 460 m²,
garden area: 1.000 m²
sleeping places: 11
bedrooms: 6
bathroom: 5
garden: yes
patio: yes
terrace: yes
swimming pool: yes
private car parking: yes
location: S.F. Circeo, gated residence on the beach side.
Availability of a car: desirable

Description:
The magnificent Villa Golfo Verde is located “a stone's throw” from the beach, in a gated, guarded private residence in San Felice Circeo. This villa is well suited for families with children, has a large private pool and provides an orchard. The villa's terraces offer sea views. The central street of San Felice Circeo is 3 km away.

All main rooms of the villa are located on two levels.

ground floor: large, bright central area with fireplace, divided into living and dining areas. From the living room as well as from the dining room there are exits to the garden. From the dining room there is an entrance to a separate kitchen. Then a small corridor leads to the bathroom (no shower) and to the hallway. Vv entrance hall from the facade of the villa.
Further, a small corridor leads to a sector with two bedrooms: a bedroom with a wide bed for two beds and a bedroom with two separate beds. Between the bedrooms there is a bathroom (shower).

second floor: on the second floor there is a small cozy living room, also with a fireplace and access to the terrace. There are also 3 more bedrooms, of which one is a bedroom with a wide bed and a private bathroom (bathroom). The second, master bedroom with a private bathroom (shower room) has access to the terrace. The third bedroom has a single bed and also has its own access to the terrace.
The entire second floor is surrounded by a spacious terrace, divided into cozy lounges and offering romantic views of the sea and the residence.

On the ground floor of the villa there is another bedroom with a separate entrance, a private bathroom (shower) and its own patio.

Ground floor, garage level:
- garage with two spaces for cars,
— technical part, which contains a washing machine and a clothes dryer;

Garden:
The large and well-kept garden is divided into several sectors:
- a romantic area in front of the facade of the house with olive trees. Next to the olive trees there is a narrow section with a planting of fruit trees and a vineyard.
- a plot with a green lawn, a barbecue oven and a patio in front of the house. On the patio there is a large round dining table.
- and the last sector, closed with a gate (for the safety of small children), is the part with the pool. Swimming pool, size 12 m x 6 m. The maximum depth of the pool is 2.5 m. The pool has a modern cleaning system with ultraviolet light and natural reagents based on sea salt.

Equipment:
air conditioning, refrigerator, stove, oven, electric wave oven, toaster, electric kettle, electric espresso coffee maker, manual moka coffee maker, dishwasher, washing machine, clothes dryer, unlimited wi-fi, iron, satellite TV, hair dryers, baby crib, children's room wooden crib, wooden high chair, baby bath, safe, garden furniture, barbecue, swimming pool, alarm, night vision cameras, private parking.

The rental price includes:
- tech. home and pool maintenance
- gardener
- water consumption
– weekly cleaning 2 times a week
– change of bed linen and towels
- final cleaning

Additional expenses:
— electricity and heating according to consumption

Additional services, on request, for a fee:
- cook for partial and full rental periods. The price of the service is discussed separately.
- governess for partial or full rental period. The price of the service is discussed separately.
– transfer from Rome to your destination.

Notes:
— self-service facility, meals are not provided.
— small animals are allowed by prior arrangement

Location:
The gated luxury residence in which the villa is located has a convenient strategic location. Just a few minutes' drive from the main street of the town, this place is removed from the hustle and bustle of the resort center. The residence is mainly used by families with children, who have a private beach at their disposal. The superbly equipped Marina del Circeo club has been operating on the beach since 2016. Clients are provided with two areas with sun loungers - sand and lawn, a bar and a children's playground on the green lawn.
Video control is installed at the gates of the residence. A night security patrol has also been organized.
Directly next to the residence there are grocery stores, a good pizzeria with a classic wood-burning oven, and the best seafood boutique in the area - the Azurro fish shop. And immediately upon leaving the residence there is a cafe popular among local vacationers - ice cream

— to the beach — 50 m.
— to the nearest supermarket — 200 m., 3 min. walking
— the historical center of San Felice Circeo is 5 km away. 10 min. driving
– to the central street Circeo – 3 km.
- to the port of San Felice Circeo - 4.5 km. 9 min. driving
— to the town of Terracina — 16 km, 20 min. by car;
– to the town of Sabaudia – 15 km. 17 min. by car
– Fiumicino airport (Rome) – 120 km.

Booking conditions:
The reservation is guaranteed by an advance payment of 35-40% of the final rental amount. The prepayment is non-refundable and must be paid within 5 working days after written approval of the choice of this object. The balance of the rental amount is paid by bank transfer 45 days before arrival. Upon arrival, the tenant leaves a security deposit, the amount of which is negotiated separately for each reservation, depending on the length of the rental period. Minimum amount € 1,000 /week. The security deposit is returned at the end of the lease, provided that no damage was caused to the owner’s property.

Location map: