Taranto has been named as the best place to visit in Europe and is a beautiful seaside city with a rich history that has made it well worth a visit at some point
This stunning city has been touted as one of the must-visit destinations in Europe over summer – with its landmark being hailed as Italy’s finest. Taranto, nestled on the gorgeous Ionian Sea, boasts a rich history that makes it a worthy addition to any travel itinerary. It continues to function as a significant commercial port and serves as the primary naval base for Italy.
Its main attraction is the Castello Aragonese, which has been crowned the top landmark to visit this summer by travel experts at Pompeii Tours and Tickets. Officially known as the Castel San Angelo, it was erected on the site of ancient fortifications dating back to the Greek occupation in the third and fourth centuries BC.
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Today, the fortress welcomes the public for tours and is a popular stop for tourists. The fortress features wide and short halls, a distinctive feature of Norman culture, along with spherical halls and internal walkways, reports the Express.
For those keen to delve into Taranto’s rich history, the Museo Nazionale Archeologico di Taranto is touted as one of Italy’s most significant archaeological museums.
Dedicated to the archaeology of ancient Taranto – formerly known as Taras – there are numerous artefacts to marvel at, including the world’s largest collection of Greek terracotta figures.
The city also houses an 11th-century cathedral dedicated to San Cataldo, an Irish monk who resided and was laid to rest here in the 7th century.
Located in one of Puglia’s oldest Romanesque buildings, it’s a favourite spot for tourists visiting the city.
Thanks to the local fishermen, fresh seafood is a staple in most restaurants in the city. The unique blend of fresh and sea water in the bay provides an ideal environment for cultivating shellfish like mussels and oysters, a practice that has been ongoing in Taranto since the third century BC.
Other locally grown produce such as artichokes, eggplant, tomatoes, olives and onions also feature prominently on menus.
The city also appeals to those who prefer less crowded destinations, with many tourists choosing to visit more popular cities and towns nearby.
Travel experts recommend visiting in May when queues and crowds at top attractions are at their lowest.
