Grottaglie​

Latest page update: 19 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
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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Discover

Discover Grottaglie
Grottaglie is a town located in the southern part of Puglia, within the Province of Taranto. Situated inland, it lies on the edge of the Murgia plateau, surrounded by vast agricultural land, including olive groves and vineyards. Grottaglie is best known for its centuries-old pottery tradition, with the town’s ceramic workshops and kilns producing some of the finest handcrafted pottery in the region. The town itself features a charming historic centre, where narrow streets and traditional stone buildings reflect its long cultural history.

Visitors to Grottaglie can explore the town’s ceramic district, which is home to numerous artisan workshops where visitors can watch the pottery-making process and purchase unique handcrafted pieces. The impressive Castello Episcopio, a 16th-century castle, stands as a key landmark, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The Church of San Francesco, with its striking architecture and artwork, is another important site in the town. Grottaglie’s local markets and restaurants offer a taste of traditional Puglian cuisine, with local specialties such as orecchiette pasta and fresh olive oil.

Grottaglie is conveniently located for visiting other attractions in the region. To the south, the coastal town of Taranto provides a lively port, historic sites, and beautiful waterfront views. To the north, the town of Martina Franca offers a beautiful baroque town centre and a vibrant cultural scene. Further to the east, the city of Lecce, known for its magnificent Baroque architecture, is easily accessible and provides an exciting cultural experience. Additionally, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Matera, famous for its ancient cave dwellings, is just a short drive away, offering a unique and historic destination.​

Things to Do

Things to Do in Grottaglie
  • Centro Storico di Grottaglie stretches across the low hills near Taranto, its streets winding among whitewashed houses, baroque façades, and narrow alleys paved in pale limestone. The town radiates vibrant charm, with colourful ceramic decorations peeking from shop windows and balconies. Small piazzas reveal artisan workshops and hidden courtyards. Walking here offers a journey into a place where art and tradition live side by side.
  • Castello Episcopio rises above the historic quarter, a sturdy medieval fortress later transformed into a noble residence. Its stone walls and towers watch over the surrounding streets, once a symbol of episcopal power. Today it houses exhibitions and cultural events. The castle stands as Grottaglie’s proud symbol of history and authority.
  • Quartiere delle Ceramiche lies at the town’s creative heart, a district filled with studios, kilns, and shops where artisans craft Grottaglie’s famous pottery. Narrow lanes echo with the sound of wheels and chisels shaping clay into vibrant designs. It’s a living testament to centuries-old craft. The ceramic quarter remains Grottaglie’s most unique artistic feature.
  • Chiesa Madre di Maria Santissima Annunziata stands gracefully in the centre, its baroque façade adorned with sculpted details and elegant columns. Inside are ornate altars, sacred paintings, and fine stuccoes. The church has long shaped Grottaglie’s spiritual life. It remains a cherished emblem of faith and community pride.
  • Guided ceramic and historical tours in Grottaglie lead visitors through medieval streets, artisan workshops, and noble palaces rich with local heritage. Local guides share tales of ancient pottery techniques, baroque art, and the town’s ties to Taranto’s noble past. Tours often include demonstrations of ceramic-making and tastings of local wines and sweets. Exploring reveals Grottaglie’s blend of artistic excellence, deep history, and authentic regional spirit.
Grottaglie Tours and Activities
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

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Grottaglie

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