Taranto

Taras, the original name of Taranto, was the only colony in Magna Grecia founded by the Spartans in 706 B.C. For a certain amount of time it was also the most powerful polis off all the Greek colonies in southern Italy. 

Ask a true Tarantino about this, and they will happily tell you the story of Skuma (which means foam in dialect). It’s a love story between a beautiful young girl from the city and her fisherman husband that explains the two sculptures of mermaids on the rocks of Taranto’s seafront.

This fascinating aquatic mammal is traditionally associated with the city thanks to the Greek legends, and has lived in the Gulf of Taranto for more than four thousand years. 

The feast of Santa Cecilia takes place on 22nd November, which marks the beginning of the Christmas festivities. Whilst a band marches through the city, the locals fry “pittule” (small doughnuts) with salt cad and offer them to passers-by. This is a reference to the tradition of shepherds from Abbruzzo, who came to Taranto with their herds during the migratory season, and played music in the streets with traditional instruments.

The Palio in Taranto takes place on 8th May, which is also the first day of celebrations in honour of the patron saint of the city, San Cataldo. This is a traditional regatta with 10 wooden rowing boats linked to the different areas of the city, guided by two rowers who stay standing throughout. The boats have to go around the old town in less than 30 minutes. After this there are fireworks, folkloristic performances and a maritime procession that goes along the canal. 

A unique experience that gives you a fantastic view over the Mar Piccolo. Canoe slowly between coloured boats, mussel farms, fishing boats and wooden quays, in a surreal silence that’s only punctuated by the sound of the seagulls flying overhead. 

If you love fresh mussels and fish, then it probably won’t be too big a sacrifice to wake up at dawn to visit the fish market in Taranto. This is the best moment to experience the real Taranto, as well as picking up some bargains.