Known as “The City of Two Seas,” Taranto sits gracefully on Puglia’s Ionian coast, where history, myth, and Mediterranean beauty merge. Founded by the Spartans in the 8th century BC, the city has long been a crossroads of cultures — Greek, Roman, and later Aragonese — each leaving behind traces of splendor that still define its skyline.
Today, Taranto combines ancient landmarks, vibrant maritime life, and coastal elegance, making it one of Southern Italy’s most intriguing destinations.
Top Historical Landmarks
Aragonese Castle (Castello Aragonese)
Built between 1486 and 1492 by King Ferdinand II of Aragon, this massive sea fortress was designed to defend the city against Ottoman invasions. Managed today by the Italian Navy, the castle offers fascinating guided tours through its towers, dungeons, and sea-facing bastions.
Temple of Poseidon (Tempio di Poseidone)
Dating back to the 6th century BC, this archaeological site is one of the few surviving examples of Magna Graecia architecture in Puglia. The remaining Doric columns — silent witnesses of Taranto’s Greek past — stand proudly in the heart of the old city.
San Cataldo Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Cataldo)
Located in Taranto’s Città Vecchia, this cathedral is dedicated to the city’s patron saint and blends Byzantine, Baroque, and Romanesque styles. Its ornate interior and historic crypt reveal more than a millennium of faith and artistry.
Culture and Local Life
National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MArTA)
Among the most prestigious museums in Italy, MArTA preserves treasures from Taranto’s Greek and Roman eras. Don’t miss the Gold of Taranto, exquisite jewelry crafted over 2,000 years ago, symbolizing the city’s ancient wealth and craftsmanship.
The Old Town (Città Vecchia)
Wander through Taranto’s atmospheric old quarter — a maze of narrow alleys, balconies draped with laundry, and ancient stone archways. Here, history mingles with everyday life, street art, and artisan workshops that echo the city’s enduring soul.
Nature and the Two Seas
Mar Piccolo & Mar Grande
Taranto’s unique geography divides it between two natural bays — the calm Mar Piccolo, famous for mussel farming, and the Mar Grande, home to the commercial port and sandy beaches. Boat tours reveal their contrasting personalities, from tranquil inlets to open sea panoramas.
Lungomare Vittorio Emanuele III
A favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, this elegant promenade offers sweeping sea views, palm-lined walkways, and beautiful sunsets over the Ionian horizon — perfect for an evening stroll or an aperitivo with a view.
Travel Tips
Getting There:
Taranto is easy to reach by car or train from Brindisi (75 km), Lecce, or Bari. The nearest airport is Brindisi Airport (BDS), with international connections and car rental services for exploring Puglia’s Ionian coast.
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal months are April to June and September to October, when the sea breeze is mild, and the city hosts local festivals celebrating music, food, and maritime traditions.
