Maruggio in the province of Taranto: one of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages, with the historic centre of the Knights of Malta, the Primitivo and the beaches of Campomarino.
History
Maruggio is one of the province's jewels: a small town of little more than five thousand inhabitants, it belongs to the circuit of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages. Founded, according to the sources, around the year 870, it was land of the Templars and, after their dissolution, passed to the Knights of Malta, who deeply shaped its historic centre and protected the inhabitants from pirate raids.
What to see
The historic centre. Maruggio's true treasure: a weave of alleys, arches and courtyards largely built by the order of the Knights of Malta, dotted with elegant aristocratic palazzi and notable religious architecture. The Mother Church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, dates to the fifteenth century.
Archaeology. For lovers of ancient history there are the Castigno archaeological area and that of Capo dell'Ovo, the latter from the Greco-Roman era.
The sea. The seaside district of Campomarino di Maruggio is among the Ionian coast's most popular destinations: crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, a protected dune system and a marina. It is much frequented by locals and tourists alike.
The wine. Maruggio falls within the Primitivo Lands: wine production is one of its strengths, in continuity with nearby Manduria.
Did you know…
- Maruggio belongs to the circuit of Italy's Most Beautiful Villages.
- The historic centre was largely built by the Knights of Malta.
- Before the Knights of Malta, Maruggio was land of the Templars.
- Campomarino di Maruggio is among the best-loved beaches of the Ionian coast.
Practical information
| Hours | The village can be visited at any time. |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Visiting the historic centre is free; free beaches and equipped lidos at Campomarino. |
| Accessibility | The historic centre has cobbled alleys; the marina is easier. |
| Getting there | From Taranto about 40 km along the SS7ter, or the SP123 and SP110. About an hour by public transport too. |
Tips for your visit
- Give the historic centre time: it's one of the province's finest.
- Pair the village visit with a day at Campomarino.
- Taste the Primitivo: Maruggio is in the Primitivo Lands.
- In the surroundings: Avetrana, Torricella, Sava, Manduria and San Pietro in Bevagna.