Otrantoo

Otranto, also called the "East Gate", is the inhabited centre and the most eastern territory of Italy, so much so that every New Year's Eve the event Alba dei Popoli is specially organized.

To the numerous visitors who flock to its coasts and the old town every year, it shows itself sunny and full of oriental charm. On the clearest days, you can glimpse Albania's mountains from the coast, only 70 nautical miles away.

Otranto was long disputed with the Turks, who invaded it in 1480 and dominated it only for a year, a period that had a profound influence on its culture and physiognomy in the following centuries. The two medieval watchtowers have remained to witness the nightmare of the Turkish invasions.

Today Otranto presents itself to tourists with the majesty of the Cathedral, the largest church in Apulia. Its façade was rebuilt after the Turkish invasion and of incomparable value is the floor mosaic executed in the twelfth century, now completely restored. Inside, the Cathedral also preserves the remains of the 800 martyrs killed by the Turks during their invasion.

Otranto also offers a wonderful view of the Aragonese Castle, along with the towers, ramparts and walls. After the invasion, the city was greatly fortified to defend itself from enemy attacks. The ancient village has narrow streets made of stone, which wind through the houses in serpentine, now largely used to accommodate many characteristic shops and food and wine activities.

Moving a few kilometres, you can relax in one of the large and airy beaches near the Alimini Lakes, such as the Turkish Bay in the north and Porto Badisco in the south. Along the hydrant coast, the sea is crystal clear and clear, rich in dunes, ravines, caves and inlets that, together with the nearby presence of the Alimini Lakes, make this town truly enchanting.