Marittima
Marittima: a coastal town in Salento waiting to be discovered
Marittima is a geographical fraction of the municipality of Diso, located in the province of Lecce, a city rich in history and culture overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Salento sea. With a population of approximately 2,000 inhabitants, Marittima is a quiet and picturesque place, perfect for those looking for a relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Origin of the name
The origin of the name Marittima is uncertain, but it is assumed to derive from the town's proximity to the sea or from the town's founders, who came from the sea and were called "maritimi". Therefore, the name Marittima could mean the place where they lived.
History
The history of Marittima dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the city was founded or inhabited by the Messapi, and that it suffered the same fate as the neighboring towns of Vaste, Diso, and Castro (Puglia), falling under the control of the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, and Angevins subsequently.
During the feudal period, Marittima was part of the County of Castro, falling under the control of different noble families, including the Orsini Del Balzo, the Gattinara, the Ruiz De Castro, the Lopez De Zunica, until 1809 when the Rossi family became its owners.
Marittima suffered several attacks by Turkish pirates, including the plundering in 1537 which destroyed Castro (Puglia) and other nearby towns. In 1573, the village was again ransacked by Saracen pirates. To defend themselves, several observation towers were built along the coast, including the beautiful Torre Lupo, which stands on a high rocky spur. Several defensive towers were also built in the town center.
Monuments and places of interest
Marittima boasts several tourist attractions, including the Church of San Vitale, one of the most important religious architecture in the city. The church was rebuilt and expanded at the beginning of the twentieth century according to the designs of the architect from Spongano Filippo Bacile di Castiglione. With a simple neoclassical façade, the church has an entrance portal flanked by two niches with depictions of Valeria of Milan and the saints Gervasio and Protasio, and topped by a niche portraying Vitale of Milan.
Marina di Marittima
The part of the town overlooking the coast is called Marina di Marittima. With its hidden coves and crystal-clear waters, Marina di Marittima is an ideal destination for sea lovers and water activities. The pebble beach also offers the opportunity to enjoy the sun and relax in a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
What to do in Marittima
In addition to its natural and cultural beauties, Marittima offers numerous activities for its visitors. One can take walks or bike rides and discover the wonders of the Salento landscape. Furthermore, Marittima is famous for its traditional Salento cuisine, based on fresh fish and local vegetables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Marittima is a delightful destination offering a perfect combination of culture, history, nature, and fun. With its crystal-clear sea, pebble beaches, tourist attractions, and traditional cuisine, Marittima is an ideal destination to spend an unforgettable holiday in Salento.
