Welcome to Otranto, one of the most beautiful cities in Puglia
Hello everyone, I am Elisabetta, your personal concierge at BeBari Apartments in Bari.
Are you ready today to discover Otranto, one of the jewels of Puglia?
Starting from Bari (where BeBari offers convenient free parking and a strategic location), Otranto is easily reachable and represents a must-visit stop on your journey through Puglia.
Here’s a complete guide to make the most of the city!
1. What is Otranto famous for?
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Otranto is renowned for its incredible historical and cultural heritage, as well as its crystal-clear beaches. A treasure trove of natural and historical beauties.
But what exactly to visit in the center of Otranto?
It’s definitely worth discovering this city for several reasons. Here are some of the must-see places in Otranto:
- Otranto Cathedral: This magnificent 12th-century building is famous for its huge floor mosaic depicting the “Tree of Life”, a masterpiece that tells biblical and mythological stories. It is also the place where the relics of the Martyrs of Otranto are kept.
- Aragonese Castle: An imposing 15th-century fortress that dominates the city with its massive walls and towers. In addition to being a historical icon, the castle hosts art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
- Church of San Pietro: A perfect example of Byzantine architecture, with beautiful frescoes adorning its interior walls. It’s a hidden gem in the heart of the historical center.
- Serpent’s Tower: Located just outside the city, this ancient watchtower offers a spectacular view of the coast and the surrounding sea. Perfect for photography and history enthusiasts.
- Diocesan Museum: Located near the Cathedral, the museum displays a collection of sacred art, liturgical garments, and silverware, telling the religious and artistic history of Otranto.
- Deer Cave: A prehistoric cave located in the bay of Porto Badisco, famous for its ancient rock paintings depicting hunting scenes and rituals. Guided tours are available, offering a unique experience.In short, Otranto is an explosive mix of natural beauty and fascinating history
2. What typical food to eat in Otranto
When you visit Otranto, prepare to delight your palate with some of the tastiest culinary specialties of Puglia. Here’s what you must absolutely try:
- Seafood Risotto: A rich and flavorful dish, prepared with rice and an abundance of fresh seafood caught in local waters. A must for sea lovers.
- Friselle with cherry tomatoes and olive oil: A simple yet delicious appetizer, consisting of friselle (crispy bread rings) soaked in water and then topped with fresh cherry tomatoes, oregano, garlic, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Leccese Pasticciotto: This traditional dessert is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. It’s a soft shortcrust pastry filled with custard cream, often enriched with sour cherries or chocolate.
- Sagne ‘ncannulate with meat sauce: A typical homemade pasta, curled and served with a rich meat sauce, often cooked slowly for several hours to enhance the flavor.
- Fish Grill: Given Otranto’s coastal location, there’s nothing better than a fresh fish grill. You’ll find seabass, seabream, squid, and prawns, all grilled to perfection and served with lemon and a touch of olive oil.
- Ciceri e tria: A typical Salento dish combining fried and boiled pasta with chickpeas, enhanced with a garlic and chili pepper dressing.
These dishes represent just a part of the culinary delights that Otranto has to offer. Savoring these Apulian specialties not only allows you to taste the best of local cuisine but also immerses you in the culture and tradition of this beautiful southern Italian city.
3. How is the sea in Otranto?
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Ah, the beaches of Otranto! Prepare to discover some of the most charming beaches that Puglia has to offer. Each beach has its unique charm, and here you’ll find all the necessary information to enjoy them to the fullest.
a. Bay of Turks
This beach is a true natural jewel, famous for its white sand and crystal-clear waters that resemble those of the tropics. It is part of a nature reserve, so it is perfectly maintained and relatively quiet even in the summer months. It is accessible via a small path immersed in the Mediterranean scrub, adding a touch of adventure to your arrival at the beach.
b. Alimini Beach
The Alimini beaches are ideal for families and sports enthusiasts. They offer wide stretches of golden sand and are surrounded by a landscape of dunes and lakes, ideal for birdwatching. Here, the waters are shallow and calm, perfect for safe swimming for children. Additionally, there are numerous beach resorts where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds and enjoy a lunch of fresh fish. It is easily accessible by car and has ample parking.
c. Porto Badisco Beach
This cove, nestled among the rocks, is famous for being the landing place of Aeneas on his journey to Rome, as narrated by Virgil in the Aeneid. The water here is deep and crystal-clear, ideal for snorkeling. There are not many services, so it’s perfect for those looking for a more wild and natural experience. Porto Badisco is accessible by car and has a small parking area.
d. Boat tour
For a unique adventure, consider a boat tour from the beaches of Otranto. These tours allow you to explore the coast from a different perspective and visit sea caves accessible only by sea, like the famous Zinzulusa Cave. Tours generally depart from the port of Otranto and are available as half-day or full-day options.
4. How long does it take to visit Otranto
Otranto can be explored in a day, but there are many activities and places to discover if you have more time:
- In one day: visit the historical center, the cathedral, and the castle, and take a dip at the beach, one of your choice.
- Over several days: explore the surrounding beaches, the hinterland, and natural beauties like the Grotta della Poesia.
- When to visit Otranto: the best months are from May to September, when the climate is ideal for enjoying both the city and the sea.
5. Practical Information
How to get to Otranto:
a. By Car
- From Bari: Otranto is about 200 km southeast of Bari. You can take the SS16 or the SS379, passing through Brindisi and Lecce. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- From Lecce: From Lecce, Otranto is easily accessible by following the SP366 for about 45 minutes of driving.
b. By Train
- From Bari: You can take a regional or intercity train from Bari to Lecce, and from there change to a local train that will take you to Otranto. The total travel time can vary from 2 to 3 hours depending on connections.
- Directly from Lecce: There are regional trains that connect Lecce to Otranto on a daily basis. The journey takes about an hour.
c. By Bus
- Intercity bus services: Several bus companies offer connections between Lecce and Otranto, as well as from other major cities in Puglia. These buses are an economical solution and offer numerous schedules throughout the day.
d. Air Transport
- Nearest airport: The nearest airport is in Brindisi, about 90 km from Otranto. From there, you can rent a car or take a direct bus to Lecce and then proceed to Otranto.
e. Car Rental
- From the airport or the city: Renting a car can be a flexible and convenient solution, especially if you wish to explore the coast and the surrounding rural areas at your leisure.
f. Taxi Service or Private Transfers
- From Lecce or Brindisi: You can book a taxi or a private transfer for a more comfortable and stress-free journey directly to your accommodation in Otranto.
g. Bicycle or Scooter
- Local rental: If you are already in Puglia and prefer a more active adventure, you can rent a bicycle or scooter to reach Otranto, exploring the picturesque countryside along the way.
These modes of transport offer various options depending on your needs and the type of travel experience you are looking for. Otranto is a wonderful destination that deserves a visit, and getting there is part of the fun!
6. History and Curiosities about Otranto
Otranto, located in the Salento region of Puglia, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. This city bears the marks of the various civilizations that have influenced it over the centuries, making it a true melting pot of cultures.
Ancient Origins
The origins of Otranto are lost in prehistory, with evidence that the area was inhabited as early as the Neolithic era. The ancient Greeks knew it as Hydruntum, an important port that served as a bridge between Italy and the East. During the Roman period, the city continued to thrive thanks to its strategic location along maritime routes.
The Middle Ages and the Ottoman Invasion
In the Middle Ages, Otranto became an important center of trade and spread of Byzantine culture in the region. However, 1480 marks a tragic year in the history of Otranto with the invasion of the Ottomans. During the siege, about 800 citizens were beheaded for refusing to convert to Islam; these martyrs are known as the “Martyrs of Otranto” and were canonized in 2013 by Pope Francis.
The Renaissance and Beyond
After being reconquered by Christian forces, the city was fortified with the construction of the Aragonese Castle, which still dominates the urban landscape today. In the following centuries, Otranto underwent the rule of various rulers, including the Spanish and the Venetians.
Modern Era
In the modern era, Otranto has seen a transition from an important military and commercial port to a renowned tourist destination, appreciated for its beaches, its historical and cultural heritage, and its vibrant atmosphere. Every year, visitors from all over the world come to admire the natural and architectural beauties of the city, such as its famous cathedral and the picturesque historical center.
The history of Otranto is a woven fabric of myths, legends, and historical facts, which is reflected in the architecture and unique atmosphere of the city. Its ability to blend Eastern and Western influences makes it one of the most fascinating and historically rich destinations in southern Italy.
In conclusion, Otranto offers a lot, both in terms of culture and seaside relaxation.
What do you think, have I convinced you to take a leap into wonderful Otranto?
Remember, BeBari Apartments in Bari is your ideal starting point for exploring Otranto and all the wonders of Puglia.
I hope to see you soon and help you experience an unforgettable vacation!
Where to sleep in Bari before visiting Puglia
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Comfort. No constraints. Just relax
- Designer flats, just minutes from all the attractions of Bari.
- Virtual check-in. Without reception or keys. Without rules or timetables.
- Independent. Everything you need to have what you want, when you want, how you want.
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