Taranto
Taranto is also known by the nickname of City of the two seas since it is located between the Mar Grande and the Mar Piccolo. Founded in 706 BC, it was one of the most important urban settlements of Magna Graecia
Today to learn about the history of Taranto it is possible to visit the National Archaeological Museum (MArTa), where the famous Golds of Taranto are preserved, sparkling productions of goldsmith art dating back to the period between the 4th and 2nd BC.
The history of Taranto is clearly visible along the two bridges which act as a connection between the old city and the new one. There is a long stone bridge erected after the flood of 1883 and the swing bridge, built in 1887 and access point to the alleys around Via Cava. In this area there are noble palaces and churches from different eras such as the Cathedral of San Cataldo and the Cathedral of San Domenico.
One of the most suggestive areas of Taranto is the old City, the medieval part of the Apulian town built in the 10th century on the remains of a Greek acropolis. In addition to Greek-era ruins, the neighborhood is also a beautiful example of Byzantine art. Equally unmissable is the Aragonese Castle, built in the 15th century on what remained of ancient Greek and Byzantine fortifications. Taranto, however, is not just art and culture as it is an important center for fish production and mussel farming. In fact, the Taranto mussel it is the queen par excellence of Apulian tables and is excellent to be enjoyed both raw and cooked.
