Otranto guided tour

Beginning of the visit

My guided tours of Otranto will take you on a discovery of its fortified historic center, where we will learn about a sad chapter in its history: the conquest by the Turks in 1480 and the subsequent worship of the 814 martyrs.

Old Town and Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata

We will begin our journey in Via del Porto, from where we will enter the heart of Otranto.
When we reach Piazza Basilica, we will be facing the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, a clean, linear structure far from the ornaments of Salento Baroque.
The Cathedral dates back to the second half of the year 1000 and was built on ancient remains of Messapian, Roman and early Christian villages.
It has suffered numerous assaults and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times.
Inside the Cathedral, we will admire the most extensive and spectacular mosaic in Europe, dating back to the 12th century.
This masterpiece, created by the monk Pantaleon and finished in 1164, depicts the tree of life and scenes from the Old Testament, narrating man’s journey to free himself from sin and seek eternal salvation.

Otranto Castle and Church of San Pietro

The guided tour will continue to Otranto Castle, where we will admire the exterior architecture of this impressive structure.
The castle played a crucial role in the defense of the city and is a remarkable example of military architecture.
We will conclude our visit at the Church of San Pietro, a small treasure trove of Byzantine art located in the heart of the historic center.
This church, with its frescoes and architecture, offers an intimate experience of Otranto’s spirituality and art.

Additional information

My guided tours of Otranto offer an unmissable opportunity for anyone who wants to learn more about the history, culture and art of this fascinating city.
Thanks to my continuing education and passion for history, I will be able to engage you in a compelling narrative rich in detail, making each visit a unique experience.
A focus on personalizing visits allows me to tailor the itinerary and explanations to visitors’ specific interests, ensuring a tailored, high-quality experience.
My punctuality and reliability ensure professional and impeccable service.
Do not miss the opportunity to experience a journey through time among the treasures of Otranto, where every corner tells a story and every mosaic is a work of art.
For more information and reservations, please contact me to arrange the guided tour rate.
I will be happy to accompany you on this extraordinary cultural and historical adventure.