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Holidays in Martano
Martano is a charming town located in the province of Lecce, in the Apulia (Puglia) region of southern Italy. It lies in the heart of the Salento peninsula, and it's one of the largest towns in the Grecia Salentina, an area where a Greek dialect known as Griko is still spoken by some of the population.
History
Martano has a rich and layered history, with influences from Messapian, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman civilizations.
Ancient roots: The area was originally inhabited by the Messapians, an ancient pre-Roman people.
Greek influence: During the Middle Ages, Martano became part of the Byzantine Empire, which explains the lingering Greek language and culture.
Baroque period: The town flourished during the 16th–18th centuries, leading to the construction of many elegant churches and palaces in Baroque style.
Description
Martano today is a well-preserved historic town with a distinctive southern Italian character.
Old Town (Centro Storico): Narrow winding streets, limestone buildings, charming balconies, and religious shrines.
Key landmarks:
Mother Church of the Assumption: Built in the 16th century, with a majestic Baroque façade.
Monastery of the Cistercians: A tranquil and historic site that reflects Martano’s religious heritage.
Medieval Tower and Walls: Remnants of the fortified past of the town.
Atmosphere: Quiet and traditional, with a strong sense of community and deep-rooted local customs.
Typical Foods
Martano’s cuisine is rooted in Salento and broader Apulian traditions, characterized by simple, fresh ingredients.
Sagne ‘ncannulate: Twisted ribbon pasta served with tomato sauce and often with ricotta cheese.
Pittule: Fried dough balls, sometimes filled with vegetables or olives.
Puccia: A round sandwich made from pizza dough, stuffed with local cheeses, meats, or vegetables.
Fave e Cicorie: Pureed fava beans served with sautéed wild chicory – a rustic and traditional dish.
Pasticiotto: A custard-filled pastry, popular throughout Salento.
Local wine and olive oil are also essential to the cuisine.
Activities and Traditions
Martano hosts various cultural and traditional events, particularly in summer and during religious feasts.
La Notte della Taranta: Though not specific to Martano alone, this famous folk music festival celebrating pizzica (a traditional dance and music) has events across Salento, including in Martano.
Feast of the Assumption (August 15th): Celebrated with processions, music, and food.
Local markets: Weekly markets offer fresh produce, crafts, and social interaction.
Bicycle and walking tours: The surrounding countryside is ideal for exploring olive groves and stone-walled paths.
History
Martano has a rich and layered history, with influences from Messapian, Roman, Byzantine, and Norman civilizations.
Ancient roots: The area was originally inhabited by the Messapians, an ancient pre-Roman people.
Greek influence: During the Middle Ages, Martano became part of the Byzantine Empire, which explains the lingering Greek language and culture.
Baroque period: The town flourished during the 16th–18th centuries, leading to the construction of many elegant churches and palaces in Baroque style.
Description
Martano today is a well-preserved historic town with a distinctive southern Italian character.
Old Town (Centro Storico): Narrow winding streets, limestone buildings, charming balconies, and religious shrines.
Key landmarks:
Mother Church of the Assumption: Built in the 16th century, with a majestic Baroque façade.
Monastery of the Cistercians: A tranquil and historic site that reflects Martano’s religious heritage.
Medieval Tower and Walls: Remnants of the fortified past of the town.
Atmosphere: Quiet and traditional, with a strong sense of community and deep-rooted local customs.
Typical Foods
Martano’s cuisine is rooted in Salento and broader Apulian traditions, characterized by simple, fresh ingredients.
Sagne ‘ncannulate: Twisted ribbon pasta served with tomato sauce and often with ricotta cheese.
Pittule: Fried dough balls, sometimes filled with vegetables or olives.
Puccia: A round sandwich made from pizza dough, stuffed with local cheeses, meats, or vegetables.
Fave e Cicorie: Pureed fava beans served with sautéed wild chicory – a rustic and traditional dish.
Pasticiotto: A custard-filled pastry, popular throughout Salento.
Local wine and olive oil are also essential to the cuisine.
Activities and Traditions
Martano hosts various cultural and traditional events, particularly in summer and during religious feasts.
La Notte della Taranta: Though not specific to Martano alone, this famous folk music festival celebrating pizzica (a traditional dance and music) has events across Salento, including in Martano.
Feast of the Assumption (August 15th): Celebrated with processions, music, and food.
Local markets: Weekly markets offer fresh produce, crafts, and social interaction.
Bicycle and walking tours: The surrounding countryside is ideal for exploring olive groves and stone-walled paths.
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