Guided visit of the historic centre of Otranto

Visit Otranto in a 1,5-hour walking tour, one of the most beautiful towns in Italy, in Salento, with a local guide who will accompany you on a pleasant walk through the flowering streets of the village and visit its monuments: the old town where it is worthwhile to visit the Aragonese Castle (outside) and the Cathedral with the precious mosaic floor of' "Tree of Life" and the relics of 800 Martyrs whom were slayed by the Ottomans in 1480.

Discover the Ancient Cultural Heritage Village of Otranto

Otranto village is of Greek origin and many Empires have regarded the strategic location of Otranto. From being a Greek city to a Roman city to a Byzantine possession and later it was invaded in 1480 by the Ottomans.
During this time, many Catholics refused to convert to Islam and were later beheaded for their refusal. There’s a memorial monument dedicated to the Martyrs of Otranto. The rich cultural heritage of Otranto can be seen in the architectural buildings, traditions and the impressive fortress of the Castello Aragonese.

Admire the Aragonese Castle (outside)

During this 1,5-hour walking tour, you will have the possibility to see the Castello Aragonese (outside), that was reinforced by the Roman Emperor Frederick II. This well preserved Castle can still be seen with moats running along the entire perimeter and it still has its drawbridge. The cylindrical towers and bastion stand proudly guarding Otranto.
Among the impressive civil and religious architecture, stands the Aragonese Castle, built by Alfonso of Aragon between 1485 and 1498 and designed by architect Ciro Ciri.

Visit the Cathedral of Otranto

The Cathedral was built in the 11th century and is adorned with many colorful fine mosaic pavements. The Cathedral possesses an intricately detailed rose window and contains columns and pieces of stone work from the Temple of Minerva.
The bones and relics of the Martyrs of Otranto are housed in the Cathedral beside the high altar. At the end of the tour, during your free time, we suggest you to stop at the Byzantine church of St. Peter to admire the precious wall paintings.

Other eXPeriences in Apulia

We also suggest you Independent tour of Apulia from Bari to Brindisi with accommodation- 8 days, the Half Day Private Boat activity of the Gargano Coast, the 8-Day Independent tour of Apulia from Bari, the Group tour by Boat discovering the Gargano Coast and Caves, the Private Italian Cooking eXPerience in the fantastic Salento region, the Private Tour of Alberobello by Segway, E-bike, Rickshaw or Mini Golf Cart, with Cooking Lesson, and the Private tour in a farmhouse in Alberobello by Segway, E-Bike or Golf Cart.