Discover the ancient city of Egnazia (or Gnathia), once home to the Japigi, Messapi, and Greeks until the Roman era. Begin your journey exploring the Archaeological Park of Ancient Egnazia, featuring massive defensive walls and the Messapian necropolis, with pit tombs, some adorned with exquisite frescoes. Walk through history as you encounter the remains of the Via Traiana, the Civil Basilica with the Hall of the Three Graces (now preserved in the museum), oriental deities, the porticoed square, the cryptoporticus, and the Roman baths. Be amazed by the Episcopal Basilica and the Southern Basilica, originally paved with mosaics. Please note, the Archaeological Park closes at 12:30, and after this time only the museum can be visited.
Next, your guide will take you to the recently renovated Giuseppe Andreassi National Archaeological Museum, located just outside the walls of ancient Gnathia, near the Messapian necropolis. This museum showcases over thirty-five centuries of history, from the Bronze Age to the Messapian and Roman periods. Marvel at exceptional exhibits, including the famous marble head of the god Attis and the Mosaic of the Graces, remarkable for their artistry and historical significance. Through detailed panels and photographs of archaeological excavations, you’ll gain insights into the lives, traditions, and beliefs of the ancient civilisations that shaped this extraordinary region.
This experience combines immersive storytelling, exclusive insights, and personalised guidance, allowing you to connect deeply with Italy’s ancient heritage. Perfect for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and travellers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path exploration of Apulia’s hidden treasures. Walk among ruins that span millennia, discover stories that textbooks rarely tell, and capture unforgettable moments on your personal journey through time.