Otranto, the Door to the East
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Port
Gallipoli, Italy
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$160
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Otranto was one of the ancient Rome’s leading ports for its trade with Asia Minor and Greece, and under the Byzantines it was an important toehold of the Eastern Empire in Italy. In 1070 it fell under the Normans. Turks attacked and destroyed it in 1480; during those terrible days 800 inhabitants had their heads cut off after refusing to abjure their faith.
The Cathedral which rises at top of the small town, was built to be one of the most outstanding churches in Apulia. Its crypt was erected in 1088, and the Church was completed maybe a century later. Those were years of full splendor for the small town.
Guided walking tour of this jewel of the Adriatic coast, including the cathedral which hosts the beautiful floor mosaic, as well as the skulls and bones which belonged to the martyrs killed by the Turks in 1480.
Before being transferred back to Gallipoli port, guests will enjoy some free time in Otranto.
Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes.