Otranto is the easternmost town in Italy, a small walled port on the Adriatic where the coast turns south toward the heel. The star attraction is the cathedral's 12th-century mosaic floor — a vast, strange, and rewarding Tree of Life covering the entire nave with scenes from the Bible, mythology, and medieval legend. The old town inside the Aragonese walls is compact and well-preserved, the harbour is lively with fishing boats and ferries to Greece, and the surrounding coastline alternates between sandy beaches and rocky coves with clear water. Otranto has grown more popular in recent years but remains less overwhelming than Gallipoli or Polignano.
Why Stay in Otranto
- Cathedral mosaic: The 12th-century floor mosaic is one of the most remarkable in Europe — a tree of life linking Old Testament scenes, Alexander the Great, King Arthur, and medieval bestiary animals. It's naive, complex, and endlessly fascinating. Entry is free.
- Walled old town: The Aragonese castle and walls enclose a tight grid of white-stone streets. The old town isn't large but it's well-maintained and atmospheric, particularly in the evening when the day-trippers leave.
- Coastline: The coast south toward Santa Maria di Leuca has some of Puglia's best swimming. rocky inlets, sea caves, and clear water. The Baia dei Turchi (north of town) is a sandy beach in a protected cove.
- Easternmost point: Punta Palascia (5km south) is Italy's most easterly point. On clear days, you can see the Albanian mountains across the Strait. The lighthouse walk is worth the effort at sunrise.