Must-See Art Cities in Puglia

Grecìa Salentina: A Unique Cultural Heritage

Nestled between Lecce, Otranto, Maglie, and Galatina, Grecìa Salentina is home to nine picturesque villages: Melpignano, Martano, Sternatia, Zollino, Martignano, Calimera, Soleto, Corigliano d’Otranto, and Castrignano dei Greci.

Here, locals still speak Griko, an ancient Greek dialect, and the atmosphere is infused with Byzantine and medieval influences. The cultural highlight is the Notte della Taranta, a popular music and dance festival held each August in Melpignano.

Don’t miss:
Martano, a stone’s throw from our Masserias, is one of the main villages in the area, with its ramparts, interior courtyards, and stone houses steeped in history.

Lecce: The Baroque Gem of the South

Nicknamed the “Florence of the South,” Lecce enchants visitors with its sculpted façades, ornate churches, and golden limestone that glows at sunset.

Don’t miss:

• Piazza Sant’Oronzo with its Roman amphitheater
• The stunning Santa Croce Basilica
• The elegant Piazza del Duomo
• Hidden papier-mâché workshops, a traditional local craft

Otranto: Where East Meets West

Located on the Adriatic coast, Otranto is the easternmost point of Italy and the first to greet the sunrise. Surrounded by ancient walls, its whitewashed alleys reveal Greek, Byzantine, and Aragonese influences.

Don’t miss:

• The Aragonese Castle
• The Byzantine Church of San Pietro
• Breathtaking views over the crystal-clear sea

Gallipoli: A Blend of Life, Sea, and Culture

Gallipoli, a lively seaside town, offers a rich blend of festive spirit and cultural heritage.

Don’t miss:

• The bustling fish market, where fishermen open fresh shellfish like fasolari, razor clams, and oysters right before your eyes
• The Angevin Castle, surrounded by turquoise water
• The charming old town, with narrow white alleys and sea views

Castro: A Journey Through Legend

Mentioned in The Aeneid as Aeneas’ landing point, Castro has deep mythological roots. It is split between Castro Alta, the historic hilltop town, and Castro Marina, a former fishing village.

Don’t miss:

• Castro Castle
• Authentic streets frozen in time
• Cliffside views and serene coves for a refreshing swim