Around Masseria Pompea lies a landscape of genuine villages, stone-built historic centres, lively squares and traditions that are still very much alive. Visiting these places means stepping into the everyday history of Salento, among ancient architecture, artisan workshops and local cuisine.
They are perfect for a late-afternoon stroll, an open-air dinner or a slow, unhurried exploration, without fixed plans. All are easily reached by car and ideal to combine with days spent by the sea.
Gallipoli Old Town, Casarano and Matino - Just Minutes from Masseria Pompea
Casarano reveals a genuine and understated side of the area, where history, traditions and everyday life naturally intertwine. Its compact historic centre, with quiet alleyways, hidden courtyards and noble palaces, is home to places of strong local identity such as the Basilica of Santa Maria della Croce, a precious testament to centuries of history. A village with a lively yet balanced character, inviting visitors to discover Salento with curiosity and ease.
Alongside Casarano, Gallipoli Old Town and Matino reveal two different yet complementary sides of the region. The former captivates with its seafront historic centre, connected to the mainland by an ancient bridge and enclosed by 17th-century walls, with whitewashed alleys, bright views and landmark monuments such as the Cathedral of Sant’Agata and the Angevin-Aragonese Castle, overlooking the old harbour.
Matino, an elegant inland village, stands out for its historic palaces, quiet courtyards and wide views over the Salento countryside, with important landmarks such as the Mother Church of San Giorgio. Three different places, united by the same genuine atmosphere, ideal for slow walks, food stops and a deeper immersion in the history and traditions of Salento.
Presicce-Acquarica – Tradition and local identity
Presicce-Acquarica has long been closely linked to agricultural traditions and olive oil production. Its historic centre preserves authentic treasures such as the Hypogean Olive Mills, underground spaces carved into the rock, the Mother Church of Sant’Andrea Apostolo, elegant noble palaces and ancient stone courtyards.
Walking through its narrow streets, you can feel a genuine and quiet atmosphere, far from the most crowded routes. It is the ideal village for those who enjoy discovering a place through its deepest roots.
Specchia – Among Italy’s most beautiful villages
Specchia is one of the architectural gems of Salento and is listed among Italy’s most beautiful villages. Its historic centre unfolds around Castello Risolo, with cobbled streets, stairways, arches and stone houses.
Among the most evocative spots are the Church of Santa Eufemia, the panoramic terraces overlooking the countryside and small artisan workshops. At sunset, when the light warms the rooftops and the squares slowly come to life, the atmosphere becomes particularly captivating.
Otranto – The Gateway to the East
Otranto – The Gateway to the East reveals a bright and deeply Mediterranean soul of the region, suspended between history, the sea and distant cultures. Its historic centre, overlooking the Adriatic and enclosed by imposing Aragonese walls, winds through stone alleyways, panoramic terraces and views that open onto the horizon. Iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, with its renowned mosaic floor, and the Aragonese Castle, once a stronghold defending the city, tell stories of centuries of encounters and history. Otranto retains a genuine, sunlit charm, ideal for slow strolls, moments by the sea and a deep immersion in the culture and ancient traditions of Salento.
Maglie – The commercial and cultural heart
Maglie represents the liveliest and most contemporary side of the area, without losing its historical identity. The town centre is home to important landmarks such as the Lazzaro Gagliardo Civic Museum, the Liceo Capece, a fine example of 19th-century architecture, and numerous historic palaces.
It is the ideal place for a stroll among shops, cafés, bookshops and lively squares, especially in the evening hours, when the town comes to life.
Discover the villages at a slow pace
Visiting the surrounding villages means experiencing Salento at a slower pace, without rushing from one stop to the next, but letting curiosity lead the way. Sitting in a square, stepping into a church, tasting a local dish, watching everyday life unfold: each village offers a different way to feel and understand this land.