Τα 20 κορυφαία κάστρα στην Απουλία

I came to hang around while waiting for the boat to Albania

A stroll along the seafront in the center of the Villanova marina

The origins of the fortress of Taranto date back to Byzantine times. The current appearance of the complex dates back to Ferdinand of Aragon, who had the outdated castle converted into a modern fortress at the end of the 15th century. The fortifications were further reinforced by the Spanish in the 16th century. At the end of the 19th century, the Aragonese Castle passed to the Italian Navy, which still owns the complex today.

A beautiful castle with a suggestive façade adorned with numerous statues. Inside the very interesting exhibition of Giuseppe Palumbo, the photographer on a bicycle who documented Salento between 1907 and 1959 and in the various rooms an exhibition path with original images, articles and studies dedicated to the phenomenon of tarantism. A short distance away in the enchanting historic center of Corigliano d'Otranto is the church of San Nicola Vescovo with a valuable mosaic depicting the tree of life.

In 1278 the walls of Villanova were built, and about 20 years later the castle was built by the Angevins, who took over the domination of Ostuni from the Swabian-Normans, who were responsible for the intensification of olive cultivation. From surviving documents, demonstrating its strategic importance, it appears that around the 15th century the castle was a fully active defensive structure. In fact, the city of Ostuni under Aragonese domination, thanks also to the castle and the small port of Villanova, managed to maintain the status of a state city, therefore free from feudal duties. Due to the various destructions over time, little remains of the original 14th-century construction. Currently the castle is made up of three bodies that act as square towers with a sloped base. Around the building, at the height of the first floor, runs a tubular torus and from the roof of the building rises a turret modeled on the prototype of a lighthouse. Ref. https://fondoambiente.it/luoghi/castello-del-porto-turistico-di-villanova-ostuni

it is a tourist port protected by two piers: the eastern pier 70 m long with quayside and bollards and the western pier 280 m long. Inside the dock there are some docks reserved for pleasure boats

Impressive small former castle, now a museum.

🏛️🚴‍♂️ *Explore the historic center of Monopoli: on foot, by MTB or gravel!* The *historic center of Monopoli* is an authentic gem to discover, with its narrow streets, enchanting squares and the sea that embraces it. The good news? It is easily *visitable on foot* and by *bike*, both on *MTB* and on *gravel*, offering a unique experience for all lovers of nature and history. 👣 *On foot*: Walking through the historic center of Monopoli is like taking a journey through time. Between characteristic alleys, baroque churches and welcoming squares, every corner tells a story. If you love walking, you will feel immersed in an authentic and charming atmosphere. 🚵‍♂️ *MTB or gravel*: If you prefer a more dynamic mode, the *historic center* is also suitable for a ride on *MTB* or *gravel*. Some streets are dirt or paved with stone, perfect for a cycling adventure. You can explore the pulsating heart of the city at the rhythm of the pedal, discovering hidden corners and breathtaking views of the sea. 💡 *Tip*: If you cycle, remember that some areas of the historic center are narrower and more crowded, so try to adapt to pedestrian traffic. If you walk, take the time to stop and admire the local beauties, from the characteristic flower-filled balconies to the fascinating churches.