Grottaglie​

​By Dion Protani
Latest update: 22 November 2023
The town of Grottaglie is situated with the Salento region of Puglia in the Province of Taranto. It has a population of around 32,000 residents and lies 23 kilometres west of Taranto itself.

​Places of interest nearby include Taranto, Martina Franca, Manduria and Locorotondo. The recommended accommodation for Grottaglie is the Dimora San Francesco​.
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Profile
Grottaglie is a historic town located in the Puglia region of southern Italy, specifically in the province of Taranto. Known for its long tradition of ceramics and pottery, Grottaglie offers visitors a unique blend of artistic heritage, historical charm, and cultural richness.
History: Grottaglie's history can be traced back to ancient times when it was inhabited by the Messapians, an ancient Italic tribe.
History
Throughout history, the town was influenced by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines. During the Middle Ages, it became a fortified center and played a strategic role in the region. Grottaglie's ceramics tradition dates back centuries, and today it remains one of the town's most significant cultural aspects.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Ceramics and Pottery: Grottaglie is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of ceramics and pottery craftsmanship. The town's historic ceramic quarter, known as the "Rione Monti," is filled with workshops and studios where artisans create beautiful ceramics and decorative pottery. Visitors can explore the workshops, see the artisans at work, and purchase unique pieces to take home.
  • Historic Centre: The heart of Grottaglie is its historic centre, characterized by narrow alleys, whitewashed buildings, and ancient churches. One of the main attractions is the Baroque-style Mother Church, Chiesa Madre, which features impressive architectural details.
  • Palazzo Vescovile: The Episcopal Palace, or Palazzo Vescovile, is a historic building in Grottaglie that showcases architectural elements from different periods. It is a notable landmark and cultural heritage site.
  • Castle of Grottaglie: The Castle of Grottaglie, also known as Castello Episcopio, is an ancient fortress that dominates the town's skyline. It has undergone several transformations over the centuries and now houses cultural events and exhibitions.
  • Local Cuisine: Puglia is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and Grottaglie offers visitors a chance to savor regional specialties such as "orecchiette" pasta, "taralli" biscuits, and local wines at the various restaurants and trattorias.
  • Proximity to Other Attractions: Grottaglie's location in the Taranto province makes it a convenient base for exploring other nearby towns and attractions. Visitors can take day trips to places like Taranto, Matera, or the beautiful beaches of the Ionian and Adriatic coasts.
  • Festivals and Events: Grottaglie hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating local traditions and cultural heritage. The "Festa di San Giorgio," held in April, is one of the most significant, featuring religious processions and traditional festivities.
Comune di Grottaglie
Province: Taranto

Region: Puglia

Population: 30,454​ (in 2024 - source)

​​Size: 101 km²

Elevation: 133 metres​

​Close by: Taranto, Martina Franca, Manduria, Locorotondo

Recommended accommodation: Dimora San Francesco

Grottaglie​​  Gallery

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