Discover the main attractions of the fortified city of Gallipoli, located at the tip of the Salento Peninsula, and visit one of the most important places in Apulia.
Begin your tour with an external visit of the impressive Angioino-Aragonese Castle, built by the Byzantines and expanded over the centuries. Admire its massive stone walls, cylindrical towers, and the polygonal bastion overlooking the sea, designed to defend the city from enemy attacks. Notice the moat and the castle’s strategic position, controlling access to the old town and the port.
Continue to the Cathedral of Sant’Agata, a Baroque gem dedicated to the saint martyred in Catania, whose relics are kept in Gallipoli. Admire the richly decorated interiors of marble, wood, and paintings.
Stroll through the charming streets of the old town, a maze of picturesque alleys and traditional houses, until you reach the coast, where you can breathe in the authentic atmosphere of the sea.
Then head to the evocative Old Port, the heart of the city’s maritime tradition. Here you can observe typical fishing boats, nets laid out to dry in the sun, and ancient docks that tell the storey of centuries of maritime trade, especially the commerce of lamp oil. The area is filled with the colours and scents of the sea, with open views over the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea.
Cross the characteristic Seventeenth-century Bridge, built in the 17th century and also known as the Bridge of Twelve Arches. Admire its solid masonry structure and elegant design, linking the old town to the island of the new city. From the bridge, enjoy stunning views of the sea, the port, and the skyline of the historic centre, making it one of the most scenic viewpoints in Gallipoli.
Conclude your tour at the Greek Fountain, considered one of the oldest in Italy and decorated with four caryatids inspired by classical architecture.