Taranto Walking Tour: the Town of the Two Seas

Taranto, the "Town of the Two Seas," beckons visitors to uncover its captivating history and architecture. This private walking tour, led by a licensed guide, promises an enriching exploration of iconic landmarks like the Doric Temple of Poseidon and the Aragonese Castle. Participants will marvel at the intricately designed Cathedral of San Cataldo and discover the town’s historic monuments, all while connecting the old and new parts of this coastal city. With highlights at every turn, this tour offers a glimpse into Taranto’s cultural heritage, leaving one eager to…

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Tours In Taranto.

Key Points

• Explore the Doric Temple of Poseidon, showcasing ancient Greek heritage and elegant Doric architectural style in Taranto’s historic district.
• Discover the Aragonese Castle’s Byzantine legacy, featuring robust walls, graceful arches, and intricate carvings reflecting the city’s rich architectural diversity.
• Marvel at the Revolving Bridge, an iconic engineering marvel connecting the old and new parts of Taranto and facilitating smooth pedestrian and vehicular flow.
• Admire the Cathedral of San Cataldo, a stunning blend of Byzantine and baroque architectural styles with its soaring domes, mosaics, and frescoes.
• Set out on a private walking tour starting from $269.58 and lasting approximately 3 hours, providing a rundown of Taranto’s historical highlights.

Unveiling the Doric Temple of Poseidon

Nestled in the heart of Taranto’s historic district, the Doric Temple of Poseidon stands as a testament to the city’s ancient Greek heritage.

Constructed in the 6th century BCE, this remarkable structure is notable for its two well-preserved columns, a rarity among the region’s Greek ruins.

Visitors can marvel at the temple’s impressive Doric architectural style, which features simple yet elegant lines and a sense of grandeur.

As one of the tour’s highlights, the Doric Temple of Poseidon offers a glimpse into Taranto’s storied past, inviting travelers to step back in time and explore the enduring legacy of ancient Greece.

The Aragonese Castle’s Byzantine Legacy

Looming over Taranto’s historic center, the Aragonese Castle stands as a testament to the city’s Byzantine legacy. This imposing fortification, with its distinctive architectural features, offers a window into Taranto’s rich history.

• Constructed during the 15th century, the castle bears the influences of its Byzantine predecessors, showcasing a unique blend of styles.

• Its robust walls and sturdy towers reflect the defensive necessities of the time, while its graceful arches and intricate carvings hint at the cultural sophistication that thrived within its walls.

• Today, the Aragonese Castle serves as a captivating backdrop, inviting visitors to explore the intriguing interplay between Taranto’s Byzantine past and its present-day allure.

Marveling at the Revolving Bridge

The iconic Revolving Bridge stands as a striking engineering marvel in the heart of Taranto. Spanning the narrow channel that divides the old town from the new, this unique bridge symbolizes the unity and interconnectedness of the city.

Designed to rotate 360 degrees, the bridge can accommodate both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, effortlessly facilitating the flow of people and goods between the two halves of Taranto. Visitors can’t help but marvel at the elegance and ingenuity of this feat of engineering, which has become an enduring symbol of the city’s resilience and progress.

The Revolving Bridge is a true highlight of the Taranto walking tour, offering a captivating glimpse into the town’s rich history and vibrant present.

Discovering the Cathedral of San Cataldo

As visitors wander through the historic streets of Taranto, one of the city’s most captivating landmarks emerges into view – the magnificent Cathedral of San Cataldo.

This Byzantine marvel seamlessly blends Byzantine and baroque architectural styles, with its soaring domes and intricately carved facade.

Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a breathtaking interior adorned with stunning mosaics, frescoes, and ornate altars.

The cathedral’s history dates back to the 11th century, and it has survived the test of time, standing as a testament to Taranto’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore the cathedral’s intricate details, marveling at the harmonious fusion of styles that makes it a true architectural gem.

• Byzantine-era origins
• Baroque-influenced facade
• Elaborate interior mosaics and frescoes
• Ornate altars and furnishings
• Surviving centuries of history

Exploring the Town’s Historic Monuments

Dotting the historic streets of Taranto are several captivating monuments that offer insights into the city’s rich past.

The 6th-century Doric Temple of Poseidon, with its two ancient columns, stands as a testament to the city’s Greco-Roman heritage.

The imposing Aragonese Castle, built in the Byzantine era, represents the region’s diverse cultural influences.

The Revolving Bridge symbolizes the unity of Taranto, connecting the old town to the new.

Lastly, the Cathedral of San Cataldo is a remarkable fusion of Byzantine and baroque architecture, showcasing the city’s architectural evolution.

These historic landmarks invite visitors to explore Taranto’s captivating history and appreciate the city’s enduring spirit.

Highlights of the Private Walking Tour

Exploring the historic monuments on this private walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into Taranto’s rich past.

The tour highlights include:

• The Doric Temple of Poseidon, notable for its two ancient columns that stand as a testament to the town’s Greek heritage.

• The Aragonese Castle, which represents Taranto’s Byzantine history and serves as a symbol of the town’s resilience.

• The Revolving Bridge, a unique structure that symbolizes the unity and interconnectedness of Taranto’s two halves.

• The Cathedral of San Cataldo, a Byzantine marvel adorned with a baroque facade that showcases the town’s architectural diversity.

• The licensed guide and private transportation provide a personalized and convenient way to take in Taranto’s captivating history.

Booking and Tour Details

The Taranto Walking Tour can be booked starting from $269.58 per group, accommodating up to 15 people.

Travelers can select from various tour times to suit their convenience. A licensed guide and private transportation are included in the package.

The tour starts and ends at Piazza Castello in Taranto. Participants can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. The walking tour has an overall rating of 3.0 based on a single review, with no 5-star ratings.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, ensuring a seamless experience.

Since You Asked

Are the Tours Offered in Multiple Languages?

The tours are offered in multiple languages, as they’re led by licensed guides. Customers can select the language they prefer when booking the private walking tour of Taranto’s historic monuments.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour offers a discounted group rate. The price is $269.58 for a private tour for up to 15 people, which is a more affordable option compared to individual bookings.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. According to the information provided, the private walking tour offers flexible booking times, and the price is per group, allowing customers to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code for the Taranto walking tour. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, as the tour involves exploring historical sites and walking around the town.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs?

There are no additional fees or costs mentioned for the tour. The price of $269.58 per group covers the private walking tour, licensed guide, and private transportation.

The Sum Up

The Taranto Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich heritage. Visitors can discover iconic landmarks, explore the town’s cultural history, and marvel at the stunning architecture that seamlessly blends the old and new. With a licensed guide leading the way, this private tour provides an immersive experience, connecting travelers to the essence of Taranto, the "Town of the Two Seas."