SECRET SALENTO

In Salento’s incredible history, its geographical location was perfect for invaders to attack from the sea, and for this reason there are remnants and ruins of lighthouses, bastions surrounding sea towns, castle walls, moats, and towers dotted along the coasts of Salento, all attempts to protect its inhabitants. You can see and visit these castles and castle remnants, and Gallipoli has some of the most interesting.

Gallipoli means "cittá bella" in Greek and is a completely fortified city. The new town is joined by a bridge to the medieval old town, built on a small island in the Ionian Sea. On this island stands the Gallipoli Castle which was reconstructed in the 16th century and, during the summer months, now plays host to various exhibitions and cultural events. The beautiful panoramic road from the castle traces the ancient walls to the heart of the medieval village.

At night, Gallipoli is alive with restaurants, discos, and bars. It is a beautiful location to take a romantic stroll along the sea. The sunsets in Gallipoli are not to be missed.

During the daytime, there is a very important museum in Gallipoli that should not be missed. The Diocesan Museum of Gallipoli dates back to the 6th century and was built during Bishop Domineco's reign, although it was not made a Holy See until 1387. The museum houses religious artifacts and relics spanning centuries.

As of yet, they do not have a website but you can contact the museum at museodiocesano.gallipoli@cslpuglia.net.

The current museum hours are:

June 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm Mon-Sun
July-September 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm Mon-Fri
October - May 9:00 am-12:30 pm Mon-Sun; 9:00 am - 12:00 pm and 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm Sat, Sun and Holidays, Closed Mondays

Santa Cristina is the patron saint of Gallipoli and it celebrated every July 23 with religious and civil celebrations. A statue of Santa Cristina is brought by sea to the shores of Gallipoli, followed by a religious procession through the city. There is also a traditional concert in the theater the following day and a fireworks display that night. Throughout the days of celebration there is an evening open air market.

Culinary specialities in Gallipoli include spaghetti with crab sauce, fresh boiled mullet roe, and Gallipoli soup.