Otranto has many stories to tell, and even the most absent-minded tourist is struck by the great feeling of power in the town.

In 1481, following the Saracens' conquest of Otranto the previous year, and the massacre by decapitation of 800 of the town's citizens who had refused to abjure the Catholic faith and to accept Islam, King Alfonso d'Aragona of Naples came with his men to liberate the town from the Turks. At that time, Prince Garçia from the Catalan province of Spain was staying in Naples with 500 men from his army, on the invitation of King Alfonso d'Aragona himself. In the attack, Prince Garçia added 300 of his own men to the King's army so to regain Otranto. The Turks were defeated and driven away from Otranto and King Alfonso d'Aragona showed his gratitude to the Prince by giving him the villa as a summer residence.



The mystery of the Land of Otranto culminates beyond the precious rose window of its thousand-year-old cathedral. The floor is a carpet of mosaic-patterned stones, the ceiling has gilded coffering dating back to the 1600s and the suggestive crypt is held up by 42 columns. Also of interest are the Byzantine church of Saint Peter and the15th-century castle which contains a true masterpiece of architecture known as 'the triangular room'.

It is also very pleasant to take a stroll in the historic centre of the town with its many characteristic little shops.

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