Lecce to Taranto: Private day trip

Established as a Greek colony by the Spartans in 706 BC, the ancient city was built over, leaving only a few ruins behind. At the end of the 19th century, a channel was dug to allow military ships to enter the harbour, transforming the old city into an island. Crossing the famous Swing Bridge, the streets of old Taranto feel lost in time - they’ve maintained the same layout since 967. The 10th century Cathedral of San Cataldo has maintained some of its original Byzantine mosaic floor tiles. Defending the harbour is the Aragonese Castle, also of Byzantine origin, which was reconstructed in the late 1400’s by Ferdinand II of Aragon. Visitors enter the castle via a raised walkway before exploring the battlements, towers, and chapel. Just across the way in new Taranto, the former Convent of San Pasquale Alcantarini houses the National Archaeological Museum, which is renowned for its extensive collection.