Otranto, home to approximately 5000 residents, is situated along the Adriatic coast of Salento, at the easternmost edge of Italy. Its coast boasts a diverse landscape, featuring sandy beaches and rocky cliffs with karst caves, some of which are partially submerged.
Known as Hydruntum to the ancient Romans, Otranto takes its name from the Greek Hydrus, referring to the Idro river that ran through the adjacent valley (another version, Odruntum, is linked to the Messapian word Odra meaning “water”). The town itself is located within a picturesque inlet to the south of the river’s mouth, forming a small promontory rising 20 meters above sea level at its centre.
For many centuries Otranto represented a gateway to the east, a meeting place between two great cultures and two great seas. Nautical charts, still show the nearby lighthouse of Punta Palascia – Italy’s most easterly point – as the place of convergence of the Ionian and the Adriatic.
Here is a picturesque destination combining architectural and natural beauty, rich in history and steeped in myth and legend. From ancient relics, stunning beaches, and delicious local cuisine.
Otranto’s Ancient History
The oldest settlement in Otranto lies at the edge of the Italian peninsula, with natural harbours along the channel linking Italy to the Balkans. This route connected the Aegean Sea to northern Adriatic ports.
Evidence of Neolithic life in the Otranto area comes from an extraordinary collection of cave paintings at Grotta dei Cervi, Grotta del Mammino, Grotta Marisa, and Grotta Sacara.
In nearby Porto Badisco the Grotta dei Cervi contains hundreds of red ochre pictograms, depicting hunting scenes, social gatherings, and symbolic patterns representing collective life. The gender of figures is identifiable—women are depicted frontally, marked with a black dot, while men are shown ithyphallic and in profile. Hundreds of handprints, likely linked to initiation rituals, cover the walls.
The Grotta dei Cervi is considered a prehistoric sanctuary, a gathering place for Mediterranean communities where alliances may have been forged under the auspices of the Great Mother.
Some ritual offerings from the Neolithic period, including ceremonial vases bearing schematic depictions of the Great Mother with apotropaic significance, are preserved in an exhibition hall at Otranto Castle.
Historical sources attribute Otranto’s foundation to Cretan colonists. Recent archaeological investigations have revealed traces of an Iron Age (9th–8th century BCE) Messapian settlement atop the hill overlooking the port and concentrated around the eastern inlet. While information regarding Otranto’s history during the Magna Graecia era is scarce, there is ample evidence of consistent cultural connections between the Iapygian and Greek cultures. Moreover, Otranto’s proximity to the Adriatic, just 70 kilometres away from the other side, has historically made it a vital hub for trade.
Following the Tarentine War, the Messapians allied with Taranto (a Spartan-founded city) but ultimately fell to Rome.
Roman Otranto
The Roman conquest of Salento in 261 BC, amidst the Samnite and Tarantine wars, led to a general decline in the region’s cities. Otranto managed to thrive as a significant crossroads linking Brindisi and Taranto, both of which were connected to the Appian consular road. It also served as a base for maritime journeys to the Epirote and Peloponnesian coasts.
Recent excavations between the historic centre and the sea reveal Otranto’s expansion during Roman times. Roman remains in Otranto are sparse, but notable examples include two slabs with Latin inscriptions honouring emperors Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus. These inscriptions, now part of an 18th-century doorway, suggest that Lucius Verus may have departed from the Roman port of Hydruntum for the Parthian Wars (161–166 CE).
While Otranto played a secondary role in Roman trade compared to Brindisi, its importance surged during the Byzantine era following the fall of the Roman Empire.
Byzantine Prosperity
After the decline of Roman power, Otranto came under Byzantine rule.
By the late 6th century, a wave of Greek-Byzantine settlers significantly influenced Otranto, transforming it into a cultural and political epicentre. The city, now fortified against barbarian attacks, embraced Greek culture with the settlement of public officials, notaries, ecclesiastics, and traders. Nearby, the Basilian monastery of San Nicola di Cásole became a pivotal center for spreading Byzantine culture throughout southern Italy. Although only a few ruins remain today, this monastery played a vital role, particularly through the Basilian monks who settled in Calabria, Basilicata, and Puglia.
Under the second Byzantine rule, following the reconquest of the region during the 9th century, Otranto flourished, adopting the Greek rite, as evidenced by the 10th-century Church of San Pietro in the historic centre. A significant Byzantine relic, it likely served as a focal point for religious life in Otranto until the construction of the cathedral in the 11th century.
During this period of prosperity the city became a vital base for imperial troops’ landings. Even after the Norman conquest in 1068, which faced fierce resistance from the Byzantines, Otranto continued to attract Venetian, Greek, Armenian, Jewish, and Slavic merchants. The thriving community is evident from the grand cathedral, consecrated by archbishops from Benevento, Bari, Taranto, and Brindisi, with its famous mosaic floor, completed under Archbishop Jonathan in 1166.
Otranto Cathedral
The city’s crowning glory is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, built in the 12th century on the site of earlier Messapian, Roman, and early Christian structures. Consecrated in 1088, it showcases centuries of history, particularly through its mosaic floor, created between 1163 and 1165 during the Norman reign of William the Bad. The mosaic, signed by the presbyter Pantaleone, depicts a Tree of Life, an intricate medieval visual summary blending allegories, biblical themes, and folklore.
The artwork includes representations of Alexander the Great’s ascent to the heavens, King Arthur, the Tower of Babel, the Flood, Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, and scenes of Heaven and Hell. Pantaleone’s mosaic reflects Otranto’s cultural diversity, where Christianity and Judaism coexisted, with a vibrant Jewish community of 500 families in the 12th century.
The 1480 Massacre
Otranto’s fortunes took a downturn as the Norman monarchy shifted its focus towards the Tyrrhenian side of the peninsula. Within Salento, Otranto had previously served as the capital during the Byzantine era, but it lost its prominence.
The Ottoman siege of 1480 was a dark chapter in Otranto’s history, pitting the Christian West against the Muslim East. On July 28th of that year, a Turkish fleet led by Acmet Pasha appeared on the northern horizon of the city, initially headed for Brindisi but diverted to Otranto by a storm. This expedition was part of Muhammad II‘s plan to subjugate southern Italy and reconnect with the Muslims of Spain. Otranto endured a brutal siege, After fierce resistance, resulting in the destruction of its fortifications, 18,000 Turks captured the city on August 12th.
Following the conquest, Acmet Pasha gave the city’s able-bodied men a grim ultimatum: convert to Islam or face death. Eight hundred Martyrs who refused to renounce their faith were executed on the Colle della Minerva, located “three hundred steps” from the city, on August 14th.
Otranto was reclaimed by Christians the year after, with Alfonso, Duke of Calabria, receiving the city’s keys from the defeated Turks on September 8th. On October 13th, the remains of the Martyrs were interred in the cathedral’s crypt by order of Pope Sixtus V. Still displayed in glass cases in the cathedral, they serve as a sombre reminder of human mortality and resilience.
Every year, on August 14th, a solemn procession and religious ceremonies are held to honour their memory.
The city never fully recovered from the events of 1480. The destruction, along with the decimation of the population, dealt a severe blow to the Otranto’s civil and commercial life. Subsequently, piracy plagued the coastal regions of southern Italy, contributing to a pervasive sense of insecurity.
Exploring the Old Town | Must-See Sites and Walking Tour
1. Otranto Cathedral (Basilica di Santa Maria Annunziata)
The cathedral is built on the site of earlier Messapian, Roman, and early Christian structures. Its façade, dating back to 1088, rises prominently on Piazza Basilica and stands as one of the most significant examples of Apulian Romanesque architecture. A 15th-century rose window, displaying Gothic-Arabic design, adorns the center of the façade, overlooking a 17th-century portal. The bell tower, coeval with the Cathedral, stands in the northeastern corner of Piazza Basilica and takes on a square plan spanning two stories.
Inside, is one of the largest and best preserved medieval floor mosaics in Europe. The mosaic, which spans the length of the central nave and parts of the side naves, consists of around 10 million individual tiles. It was completed in only three years, in 1166, by the monk Pantaleone of San Nicola di Casole monastery.
Depicting the Tree of Life, three allegorical trees serve as an ancient Wikipedia, encompassing themes from the Holy Scriptures such as Genesis, the Flood, Solomon and the Queen of Sheba, and scenes of Heaven and Hell. The mosaic includes representations of Ancient Roman bestiarii, months of the year, and mythological figures like Atlas with the globe on his shoulders. There are depictions from classical and Breton legends: Alexander the Great’s ascent to the heavens and King Arthur. This synthesis of Greek, Byzantine, and Norman cultural themes reflects Otranto’s cultural diversity.
But be sure to look up as well to see the ceiling, built in Moorish style.
The cathedral has three naves, each marked by fourteen granite columns crowned with Romanesque capitals. Byzantine influences are evident in some wall paintings, underscoring their importance during the cathedral’s construction. Wooden cases in the right apse chapel house the relics of the eight hundred Martyrs. Beneath the apse, you’ll find the expansive crypt, featuring a ceiling supported by 68 columns, showcasing a variety of sculpted capitals—ranging from classical to Byzantine. These columns are interconnected by cross vaults.
Admission to the cathedral is free of charge.
2. Castle of Otranto (Castello Aragonese)
This formidable structure was initiated after the 1481 reconquest of Otranto by the Aragonese. Spanish viceroys, particularly Toledo, fortified it further by adding external bastions to enhance the city’s defenses and adapt to evolving offensive techniques. The castle boasts a pentagonal design, featuring three circular towers at three of its corners, while the northeastern corner is reinforced with a sharp spur extending toward the port. The entrance is surmounted by Charles V’s imperial coat of arms, and within, a courtyard leads to a gallery on the upper floor, offering access to various rooms.
Originally a Swabian fortification, one of the towers within the structure of the Castello Aragonese was built under the supervision of Duke Alfonso of Aragon, following the city’s reconquest following Turkish occupation. Later, in the 16th century, Spanish viceroys further fortified Salento’s centres due to ongoing pirate incursions (a new Turkish landing near Otranto occurred in 1537). Enhancements by the Venetians added artillery and bombards.
The castle inspired Horace Walpole’s 1764 gothic novel The Castle of Otranto and Voltaire’s 1769 comic opera Le Baron d’Otrante.
Today, the fortress serves as a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events. Entrance fee €12 (check website for current pricing).
3. Land Gate (Porta Alfonsina) and Old Town
The present-day fortifications of Otranto can be attributed to two phases. The Land Gate and the Aragonese Castle.
Following the reconquest of Otranto ending Turk occupation, the Aragonese constructed new defences including the Porta Alfonsina outer gate to the old town with its two side towers. From here wander through into the historic center of Otranto. Stroll along the narrow streets, lined with white-washed buildings and local shops, and immerse yourself in Otranto’s history.
4. Otranto Martyrs’ Monument
A somber reminder of the town’s tragic past. A bronze female figure holds up the cross and the flag and is placed on a stand about 3m high, while on its head lies the crest of Otranto, tower and snake; below the Dolphin with the crescent moon, symbol of the province of Salento. The monument, created by sculptor Bortone, was inaugurated on December 3, 1924 by Crown Prince Umberto di Savoia.
5. St. Peter’s Basilica (Basilica di San Pietro)
Discover the ancient St. Peter’s Basilica, a Greek cross-shaped church with remarkable Byzantine frescoes and a unique Arabic-style invocation to Allah.
Walking Tour of the Old Town | What To Look Out For
Enter the city walls through the Porta Alfonsina, with its interlocking system of two circular towers, dedicated to Alfonso of Aragon. Several other towers within the city walls are attributed to Alfonso’s vision, including the Duchesca, the Ippolita and the southwestern tower of the castle.
Continue along Via Alfonso d’Aragona, traversing Largo Cavour. The chianche road, two-story buildings—some with internal courtyards—and Turkish cannonballs displayed at street corners betray the city’s history.
Continue along Corso Garibaldi, to arrive at Piazza del Popolo. To the left, uphill via Scupoli, at the end of an alley on the right, is the small Basilica di San Pietro. A Greek church with a cross layout and eight columns topped by slightly beveled prismatic capitals. While the four central columns support the dome, the four lateral columns are partially embedded in the walls. Originally, the entrance would have been preceded by a portico, and to the right of the entrance, there are remains of Latin and Greek inscriptions. Three semicircular apses extend outward with cylindrical volumes.
Continuing along Via Leondari on the right and passing under an arch, emerge onto the Bastione dei Pelasgi. Progressing to the left, follow the bastion northward toward Piazza De Ferraris. The walk along the bastion offers a vantage point for observing the configuration of the port, nestled in a natural inlet, flanked by the pier on the right and the ramparts on the left.
From the northern end of the bastion, the city’s most recent expansion on the left is obvious. Beyond the city is the Idro River. To return to the historic center, follow Via De Ferraris, Via Garibaldi, and then turn right onto Via Capt. Maiorano. Make another right onto Via Rondachi, and you’ll find yourself beside the apse of the Cathedral. Circling around the church, you’ll reach the square of the Basilica.
On your right, immediately after, an opening in the city walls provides a splendid view into the heart of the Otranto territory. To the left lies the area of villages, where recent buildings align with the geometry of the farms, still clearly visible and partly demarcated by traditional dry stone walls.
Heading from Piazza Basilica along Via del Cenobio Basiliano takes you to the imposing Aragonese Castle, a well-preserved fortress characterised by Byzantine, Norman and Aragonese influences. Climb its towers for panoramic views of the town and the sea.
Standing atop the castle’s ramparts, there’s a panoramic view encompassing the northern part of the city, the port, and, on exceptionally clear days, the opposite bank of the Otranto Canal.
Eat Otranto | Recommended Bars and Restaurants
1. LaltroBaffo
“Dear Guest, the dishes we propose are the result of careful studies and a constant research for balance, for this reason we do not think that altering the cooking time or the ingredients will benefit the dishes”.
~ Laltro Baffo menu.
When choosing our top place to eat in Otranto we had only two criteria: seafood and somewhere away from the crowds. Actually we had a third – a cool air conditioned interior was a must. By mid-afternoon the temperatures were creeping up to 40°C | 104°F. Read about the Puglia Guys visit to LaltroBaffo.
2. Da Sergio
Enjoy a classic Italian meal at this charming restaurant, specialising in local seafood dishes. Try the fresh seafood pasta (but remember pasta dishes are primi, not main courses. We eat them before the main, so keep that in mind if you are expecting a fuller plate).
3. La Bella Idrusa
Wood fired pizza, our Otranto pizzeria of choice. Plus the usual antipasti platters and homemade pasta dishes.
Otranto City Beaches
Ortanto’s city beaches are all within walking distance from the old town. Pay on street parking is available along Via Punta, adjacent to Spiaggia Otranto. Swimming and sunbathing also takes place along the lungomare running along the front of the city walls.
1. Spiaggetta del Molo
Also known as spiaggia dei bambini (the kids’ beach), this is a small and shallow beach in the middle of Otranto. A popular place for locals to meet.
From here, you can also take a stroll along the seafront promenade (Lungomare degli Eroi) to the historic center and watch the locals fishing or sunbathing.
2. Abil Accessible Beach
An accessible beach where it is possible to book services to help persons with disabilities. Sandy beach and facilities.
Nearby Beaches, Day Trips and Road Trips
1. Baia dei Turchi
One of Puglia’s best known (and most beautiful) beaches. Baia dei Turchi is located approximately 6km north of Otranto. The beach has fine, white sand and a gentle sloping rake into the sea.
The nearest parking lots are between 10 – 40 minutes away on foot. Some parking lots offer transportation to the beach for an extra charge.
We recommend Baia dei Turchi Parcheggio Schito, a well organised and inexpensive car park (expect to pay around 6€ for a car, 12€ for a camper van). Only a 10 minutes walk to the beach through a defined forest path.
2. The Alimini Lakes – Laghi Alimini
Consisting of two lakes: the Alimini Grande and the Alimini Piccolo, connected by a small channel. The lakes are surrounded by pine forests and dense scrub. For canoe rentals, hiking and swimming. Pay parking available. But at the height of summer patience is required as it can take some time to get in and out (the parking spot also serves the beaches).
3. Spiaggia Alimini
Long (but narrow) sandy beach adjacent to the lakes. Highly recommended, and with lido beach clubs and bars. There are additional pay parking lots on the adjacent road.
4. Faraglioni di Sant’Andrea
Continuing north, some 15km from Otranto, this small bay with its limestone sea-stacks and arch rising out of the water is a highly recommended visit. Swimming, snorkelling and jumping off the cliffs are popular pastimes. The water is crystal clear close up and turquoise blue from a distance. Access to and out of the water is tricky for those unable to scramble up and down rocks. Many use Punta de lu Pepe. For those with accessibility difficulties further along the bay the Scala del Paradiso steps lead down to the water.
The rugged landscape makes for a popular destination for land and seascape vistas. Newly married couples often come for official wedding album photographs. Others come for the chilled out sunset vibe.
There are several nearby parking areas. The closest is Parcheggio dei Faraglioni. This has a pay and display ticket machine. Input your car registration (licence) plate and then pay (1,50€ per hour). Display the ticket on the car dashboard). Starts filling up from 10am quickly during peak season.
About a 10-minute walk away, there are three more open field car parking areas (Parcheggio di Sant’Andrea). There is a parking machine here, but it is only active in the high season. Outside of the season, you can park here for free.
A Warning to the Curious
Anecdotally we hear and read reviews of car thefts and cars being broken into in unattended car parks, with valuables stolen in and around these destinations especially. We come into contact with hundreds of visitors to the Puglia region and not once has anyone told us that they have been a victim. Many reviewers and travel guides give this warning, but as far as we know, without any direct experience.
So, a word of caution. Never leave valuables in your car (you probably don’t at home either). Exercise common sense. We would always err on the side of caution. Which is why we would never leave luggage in our car – another of the reasons why we counsel against a frequent change of base. Choose central destinations where you can stay for 3 or 4 nights and day trip from, instead of checking out day after day and moving on just a little further.
5. Torre dell’Orso
Overlooked by the ruins of the Torre dell’Orso (the Bear Tower) it is another of Puglia’s best known (especially popular with Italian tourists) beaches in Puglia with its stunning natural rock formations.
Beach clubs and lidos run along the length of the beach, frequented by young Italians.
With soft, white sand, crystal clear sea and its gently undulating dunes dappled with maquis scrub, the Spiaggia delle Due Sorelle (Two Sisters beach) at the other end has a wonderful pine grove behind it. Walk up the trail to the top of the rocks for a great view across the beach.
6. Grotta della Poesia
Over the last decade the Grotta della Poesia (Cave of Poetry) has undergone a remarkable transformation. From a relatively unknown geological feature, of interest only to locals, to a must-visit Puglia location (it was named by National Geographic as one of the ten most beautiful natural pools in the world) and now a heavily regulated protected archaeological site.
Since 2019, swimming and sunbathing have been officially banned. Lax enforcement has meant many tourist guides haven’t yet caught up. Visitors still appear expecting to be able to swim, sunbathe and jump off into the cave. The ban on swimming and sunbathing is now strictly enforced. Entry to the archaeological site is permitted, but a ticket needs to be purchased.
The History Behind the Grotta
The Grotta Poesia, already known by local sailors, attracted scholars’ attention in 1983 when, following the collapse of a sea cave roof, the historian and epigraphist Cosimo Pagliara from the University of Lecce made an incredible archaeological discovery. The professor and his team uncovered walls covered with thousands of ancient inscriptions and drawings, dating from various civilizations, including Messapic, Greek and Latin writings, prompting extensive excavations. Over the next 25 years, archaeologists confirmed the status of Grotta Poesia as one of Italy’s most significant protohistoric sites.
However, increasing visitor numbers over the years led to growing concerns. The fragile limestone suffered from erosion, litter, and graffiti, and the historical significance of the site was at risk. In response, the authorities took decisive action, turning Roca Vecchia, the wider archaeological complex that includes Grotta Poesia, into a ticketed and fully protected site.
Visiting Today
Many tourists remain unaware of the restrictions, with outdated travel guides and social media posts still depicting swimming and sunbathing. However, the new rules are now strictly enforced. Swimming and sunbathing is not allowed at Grotta Poesia. But even without the social media money shot, Grotta Poesia is still worth visiting given its historic and archaeological importance. But if it’s just a swim, then there are plenty of other nearby spots with stunning vistas for that Instagram moment.
Roca Vecchia’s archaeological complex is divided into two sections. A visit should include stops at Grotta della Poesia, Grotta della Poesia Piccola, the Madonna of Roca Vecchia tower, and the fortifications built as part of Charles V’s coastal defences. A second area features the remains of Bronze Age settlements and Messapic walls. For those interested in history, a guided tour is highly recommended.
Essential Information for Visitors
- Entry Fees: €3 for adults, €2 for under-14s and over-65s, free entry for disabled visitors.
- Opening Hours: The site operates daily from 9am to 7pm in high season (May-October), but access to the full archaeological park varies. In low season (October-April), visits require pre-booking.
- Parking: A designated car park is available for €1.80 per hour. Bicycles, food, drinks, parasols, and drones are prohibited within the site.
For up to date information check out the official Roca – Grotta della Poesia website.
7. Bauxite Mine (Grotta della Bauxite)
Heading south, take a short drive from Otranto to explore the surreal Bauxite Cave, a former bauxite mine known for its emerald-green waters and unique landscape. It’s a great spot for hiking and photography. There is a parking lot nearby (3€) and from there it’s a 10 minute walk to the lake. There is a small van selling refreshments half way along!
8. Punta Palascia Lighthouse
The lighthouse at Punta marks the most easterly point of Italy. According to tradition and naval charts (but not the International Hydrographic Organisation who place it 45km south at Leuca), here is the meeting point of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The faro di Punta Palascia is still active although it is now fully automated. For enthusiasts it is identified by the code number 1983 E.F..
9. Santa Cesarea Terme
If you’re in search of thermal baths and relaxation, make a day trip to Santa Cesarea Terme, renowned for its spa waters and some interesting swimming areas.
10. Onward South to Land’s End
Otranto, Harbour of Love
Love comes in many forms. The Greeks identified more than five types: Eros (έρως), passionate, carnal, and irrational love; Philia (φιλία), the love of deep friendship; Agape (αγάπη), a love that transcends human limits, boundaries, and dimensions—pure and divine; Storge (στοργή), familial love; and Pragma (πρᾶγμα), an enduring love of commitment and giving without expecting to receive. Among these, there was surely also the love of discovery and knowledge—the curiosity that drove Odysseus, the yearning that only a journey can often satisfy.
The poet Meleager sang of the love of the courtesan Asclepiada in one of his epigrams:
Asclepiada, who loves love, with eyes sparkling like a tranquil sea,
persuades all to set sail into love.
The calm sea, like a woman yielding to love, tempts sailors to embark on voyages, bringing treasures and delicate kisses. Sometimes, it is love itself that inspires the act of navigation.
The legend of Hero and Leander recalls this: the two lovers lived on opposite shores of the Hellespont—he in Abydos on the Asian side, she in Sestos in Thrace, on the European side. During a festival of Aphrodite in Abydos, Hero crossed the sea to honour the goddess of love. When their eyes met, it was love at first sight. Yet Hero’s parents kept her under strict watch, and so the lovers had to meet in secret. Every night, Leander swam across the Hellespont, guided by the lamp Hero lit, shining like a beacon. But one stormy winter night, the wind extinguished the flame, leaving Leander without direction. He drowned, calling vainly on Aphrodite for help.
Hero, the maiden of Sestos, is reminiscent of Otranto, a beloved maiden sought by those who dared to reach her shores. Some succeeded, while others perished. This was the fate of the peoples drawn to the beauty and strategic location of Otranto, situated at the easternmost tip of Italy.
