Cannae
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Latest page update: 2 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The archaeological site of Cannae is situated within the Province of Barletta Andria Trani. It belongs to the Comune of Barletta, but these facts tell little of the fascinating story of the site.
The Battle of Cannae took place on 2nd August in the year 216 BC, fought between the opposing armies of the Roman Republic on one side and Hannibal Barca's Carthage on the other. In what represents one of the most astonishing outcomes in the history of warfare, Barca's Carthaginians defeated a much larger force of Romans, with an astonishing number of soldiers killed. The Carthaginian army lost some 5,000 troops while the Roman casualties are estimated to be as many as 65,000. |
Cannae, Puglia
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Canne della Battaglia • Puglia • Punic War Battlefield
Canne della Battaglia is an important archaeological site located in the Puglia region, near the town of Barletta. Known for its historical significance, it was the site of the famous Battle of Canne in 216 BC, where the Carthaginian general Hannibal decisively defeated the Roman army during the Second Punic War. The site is rich in ancient ruins, including remnants of Roman and earlier settlements, defensive walls, and various structures that offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s strategic importance during ancient times.
Visitors to Canne della Battaglia can explore the archaeological area, which includes the remains of Roman fortifications, temples, and the ancient battlefield. The site also houses a museum that displays artifacts from the battle and the surrounding area, offering insights into the ancient history of the region. The peaceful surroundings, with views of the nearby countryside, provide a reflective environment for learning about the historical events that took place here.
The nearby town of Barletta offers services such as restaurants, accommodations, and shops. Canne della Battaglia is also close to other attractions in the Puglia region, including the historic towns of Trani and Andria, as well as the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the archaeological site with exploring the cultural and natural landmarks of the surrounding area.
Visitors to Canne della Battaglia can explore the archaeological area, which includes the remains of Roman fortifications, temples, and the ancient battlefield. The site also houses a museum that displays artifacts from the battle and the surrounding area, offering insights into the ancient history of the region. The peaceful surroundings, with views of the nearby countryside, provide a reflective environment for learning about the historical events that took place here.
The nearby town of Barletta offers services such as restaurants, accommodations, and shops. Canne della Battaglia is also close to other attractions in the Puglia region, including the historic towns of Trani and Andria, as well as the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the archaeological site with exploring the cultural and natural landmarks of the surrounding area.
History
Cannae is best known for the pivotal Battle of Cannae, one of the most famous and devastating battles of ancient history. It took place on August 2, 216 BC, between the forces of Carthage, led by the brilliant general Hannibal Barca, and the Roman Republic, led by Consuls Lucius Aemilius Paullus and Gaius Terentius Varro.
The Carthaginian forces, though outnumbered, used a masterful tactic known as the "double envelopment" or "pincer movement," encircling and crushing the larger Roman army.
The battle resulted in a crushing defeat for the Romans, with an estimated 50,000-70,000 Roman soldiers killed, including both consuls. This victory is considered one of Hannibal's greatest military achievements and a turning point in the Second Punic War.
The Carthaginian forces, though outnumbered, used a masterful tactic known as the "double envelopment" or "pincer movement," encircling and crushing the larger Roman army.
The battle resulted in a crushing defeat for the Romans, with an estimated 50,000-70,000 Roman soldiers killed, including both consuls. This victory is considered one of Hannibal's greatest military achievements and a turning point in the Second Punic War.
Visiting the archaeological site
Today, Cannae is a site of historical interest and pilgrimage for history enthusiasts and visitors. While the battlefield itself may not have many visible remnants, the significance of the Battle of Cannae has not been forgotten.
Tourists can visit the site and explore the surrounding countryside to get a sense of the landscape where the ancient battle took place.
In the town of Cannae, there are some historical markers and monuments that commemorate the battle, including a plaque that marks the approximate location of the battle. The local museum may also house artifacts related to the battle and the history of the region.
Cannae is a relatively small and quiet town, offering visitors a glimpse into rural life in the Apulia region. Tourists can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, explore the local culture, and savor traditional Apulian cuisine in the surrounding restaurants.
While the site of the ancient battle may not have extensive tourist infrastructure, the historical significance and the chance to stand on the same ground where Hannibal and the Romans once clashed make Cannae an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts.
Tourists can visit the site and explore the surrounding countryside to get a sense of the landscape where the ancient battle took place.
In the town of Cannae, there are some historical markers and monuments that commemorate the battle, including a plaque that marks the approximate location of the battle. The local museum may also house artifacts related to the battle and the history of the region.
Cannae is a relatively small and quiet town, offering visitors a glimpse into rural life in the Apulia region. Tourists can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, explore the local culture, and savor traditional Apulian cuisine in the surrounding restaurants.
While the site of the ancient battle may not have extensive tourist infrastructure, the historical significance and the chance to stand on the same ground where Hannibal and the Romans once clashed make Cannae an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts.
Canne della Battaglia
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Comune: Barletta
Province: Barletta Andria Trani Region: Puglia Close by: Canosa di Puglia, Margherita di Savoia, Cerignola Fly to: Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport - 44 minutes by car (64 km) Recommended accommodation: Antica Dimora (12 km) |
Puglia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
