San Cataldo
Welcome to San Cataldo: a seaside resort surrounded by nature and history
If you are looking for a seaside resort that offers a relaxing experience surrounded by nature, San Cataldo is the perfect destination! Located just 11 kilometers from the city of Lecce, San Cataldo is a hamlet divided between the municipalities of Lecce and Vernole. The town center is part of the municipality of Lecce, while the Campoverde area belongs to the municipality of Vernole.
Origins: the ancient Roman port and reclamation
In Roman times, San Cataldo was the site of an important port named after Emperor Hadrian. Here, Augustus landed after learning of the assassination of Caesar. However, the port fell into disuse and turned into a swamp that was only reclaimed during the Fascist period by the National Fighters' Opera. Unfortunately, today the ancient port has been completely abandoned and the sea is destroying it. However, the buried remains of the port have recently been brought to light by archaeological excavations.
Nature: the pine forest, wetlands and nature reserve
San Cataldo is surrounded by nature: a beautiful pine forest will welcome you upon arrival. In addition, the area is characterized by the presence of important natural resources such as the wetlands north of the dock, the artificial reclamation basin, and the depression that undergoes the influx of meteoric and marine waters that extend up to Torre Veneri. To the south, on the other hand, is the area of the Le Cesine State Nature Reserve, a lagoon and wetland area that is one of the largest natural reserves in Salento. Heading towards the capital, there is the Bosco Fiore, one of the remnants of the great "forest of Lecce" that once characterized Salento from Brindisi to Otranto.
Economy and tourism: the sea, the beaches, the bathing establishments and the bread festival
The economy of San Cataldo is mainly based on summer tourism that pours onto the beautiful beach of the hamlet. The area is known for its bathing establishments such as Lido Prete or the now famous Lido York. Also characteristic is the "Turrisi" bathing establishment, where once palafittes stood on the sea and that today stands in the shadow of the San Cataldo lighthouse. In the past, the marina was used by professional fishermen and sport fishermen who docked there all year round. There is also a sailing club for Deriva (sailboat) and Catamaran located near the ancient Porto Adriano.
In the summer, the pro-loco association organizes the "bread festival", a celebration during which it is possible to taste many Salento culinary specialties such as "puccia with olives" or "pizzi" (bread mixed with tomato and onion).
Society: the parish of San Cataldo
San Cataldo has only one parish dedicated to San Cataldo, which serves as a "branch" of the large parish of Frigole.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a seaside resort with strong immersion in nature and history, San Cataldo is the ideal choice. Come and discover the beauty of this place and let yourself be conquered by its wonderful atmosphere!
