Gallipoli, in the province of Lecce, is located on the west coast of the Salento peninsula. It is divided into two parts: the Borgo, which is the new part of the city, and the Historic Centre built on an island of limestone and connected to the mainland via an arched bridge.
Gallipoli was once a Messapian centre called Anxa. It was subsequently occupied by the Romans and immediately became a highly important trading town in the sale of purple dyestuff, which was produced in the region.
For a long time Gallipoli remained loyal to its Greek culture by preserving its habits, rites and dialect: the Latin Rite, which had already been established in Salento from medieval times, only replaced the Greek Rite in the XVI century.
After the fall of the Roman empire, Gallipoli was sacked by the Barbarians, the Vandals and even the Goths, who were defeated and driven out by the Byzantines. The Byzantines were followed by the Suevians and Angionians, traces of whom are found in the restoration of the old Byzantine castle transformed into a fortress. The castle was further fortified by the Spanish during their occupation. The old part of present day Gallipoli, fortified by walls, towers and embankments, was subjected to numerous sieges. We recall the Venetian siege of 1484 and the French siege of 1528.
Even though there are churches, castles and monuments, the entire historic centre of Gallipoli perched on the island provides the main reason to visit the area. The small island is a kilometre and a half wide and is characterised by a mix of converging alleys and little streets. The walls, the embankments and the towers that have defended the city for centuries from invaders, today protect against heavy seas and give the city a unique charm, leading visitors to far off places.
Gallipoli Cathedral, in pure Baroque style, contains paintings and internal friezes of particular interest. You can admire a Hellenistic Fountain located near the bridge in Gallopoli, which was once mistakenly known as the oldest fountain in Italy. It is full of bas-reliefs inspired by Greek mythology. You can visit the Sanctuary of Madonna del Canneto, which is located in front of the fountain, and which presents an interesting ceiling dating from the XVIII century.
GallIpoli is also the destination of sea-loving tourists: suitable for families thanks to the fine sand beaches, such as Lido San Giovanni, and recommended to diving and under-water fishing enthusiasts.
Sources: By the editorial staff Updated on: 09/09/2010
Project created in collaboration with InnovaPuglia.
Regione Puglia
Regione Puglia