Taranto - Italy

Taranto - The City of Two Seas

Taranto is a port city in the Apulia region of southern Italy, known for its strategic location on the Ionian Sea. It has a long history, dating back to ancient Greece, and serves as a hub of industry and naval activity today.

Curiosity: City of Two Seas

Taranto is known as the 'City of Two Seas' because it is located between the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo, two connected bodies of water that define the city's geography.

Curiosity: Ancient Greek Origins

The city was founded by Spartan settlers in the 8th century BCE and became a prominent city-state in Magna Graecia, known for its military prowess and cultural achievements.

Curiosity: Naval Base

Taranto is home to one of Italy's largest naval bases, which has been strategically important since World War II and remains a key asset for Italy’s navy.

Curiosity: Archaeological Heritage

The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto (MARTA) houses one of the most significant collections of Greek art and artifacts in Italy, including the famous gold objects from ancient tombs.

Curiosity: Old Town on an Island

Taranto’s old town is located on an island that separates the Mar Grande from the Mar Piccolo, providing a unique and picturesque landscape with a mix of historical architecture.

Taranto, often referred to as the 'City of Two Seas' due to its position between the Mar Grande and the Mar Piccolo, has a history that spans thousands of years. Founded by Spartans in the 8th century BCE, the city played a key role in Magna Graecia and later became a significant Roman and Byzantine center. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this rich past, including the Aragonese Castle, the Cathedral of San Cataldo, and the National Archaeological Museum. The city’s economy is driven by its naval base, steel industry, and fishing, while its coastal charm and historic districts attract tourists from all over the world.

Places of interest in Taranto

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Hashtag:

#CastelloAragonese, #History, #Taranto, #Italy, #SeaView

Castello Aragonese

The Castello Aragonese is a 15th-century fortress built by the Aragonese rulers to protect Taranto from naval attacks. It has been restored and is now a site for guided tours.

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#MARTA, #Archaeology, #Taranto, #History, #AncientGreece

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto

The Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Taranto, also known as MARTA, is one of the most important archaeological museums in Italy. It houses artifacts from ancient Magna Graecia and the Roman Empire.

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#CattedraleSanCataldo, #History, #Taranto, #Baroque

Cattedrale di San Cataldo

The Cattedrale di San Cataldo is a Romanesque cathedral in Taranto, dedicated to the city’s patron saint. It dates back to the 11th century and features a mix of Romanesque and Baroque architecture.

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Hashtag:

#PonteGirevole, #Taranto, #Architecture

Ponte Girevole

The Ponte Girevole (Swing Bridge) is a movable bridge that connects the old town (Città Vecchia) with the new town in Taranto. It swings open to allow large naval vessels to pass through.

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#CittàVecchia, #OldTown, #History, #Taranto, #AncientRuins

Città Vecchia

The Old Town of Taranto, known as Città Vecchia, is a historic center filled with ancient buildings, churches, and ruins from its Greek and Roman past.

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#MonumentToSailors, #Taranto, #Navy, #History, #Waterfront

Monumento ai marinai

The Monument to the Sailors is a large bronze statue located on the seafront of Taranto. It honors the sailors of the Italian Navy and serves as a symbol of the city’s naval heritage.