Massafra
Massafra: an enchanting city between the Murge and the Ionian Sea
Massafra is a popular tourist destination located in the Puglia region, on the border with the province of Bari. The city, which has a population of 31,989, was elevated to City status by Royal Decree in 1939. Nestled at the foot of the Murge of Taranto, Massafra is characterized by the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, including the Terra delle Gravine Regional Nature Park.
Physical geography
The vast communal territory of Massafra ranges from the Murge to the Ionian Sea, presenting a great variety of landscapes, such as the characteristic ravines and lama, dating back to the rock civilization, of Carso origin. The altitude of the settlement ranges from 200 to 400 meters, although external areas can reach 600 meters. The massafrese territory soil is composed of a strong layer of sand-gravel and clay, typical of the geological formation of the area. One of the most significant rivers in the city is the Tara.
Climate
Massafra has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot and sometimes torrid summers, thanks to the action of warm sirocco winds. Winter temperatures range from 8-10 degrees, with occasional snowfall, while in summer, temperatures usually exceed 30 degrees and sometimes reach 40. In winter, frosts are frequent, causing significant damage to agriculture. Precipitation, on the other hand, is rather scarce, averaging about 400mm per year.
Origins of the name
The origin of the name Massafra is still uncertain. According to some historians, the etymology of the name could derive from the ancient 'Messapia' reported by Gaio Plinio Secondo, while others suggest that the toponym derives from the union of three words with different meanings: 'Massa', which indicated a large tuff stone, 'fra' which meant bottom, and 'la', which indicated the location.
Brief history
Massafra has very ancient origins, dating back to the Bronze Age. The city was founded by settlers from nearby Taranto and was subsequently conquered by Roman forces in the 3rd century BC. In the Middle Ages, the city was of great importance for commercial exchanges between the Byzantine Empire and the Longobard and Norman kingdoms. In 1570, with the Conference of Lyon, the city passed to Spain and subsequently to the Kingdom of Naples.
Places of interest
Massafra boasts numerous tourist attractions of great importance:
- The Church of San Nicola, dating back to the 13th century, is an impressive Gothic church located within the historic center of the city.
- The Federician Castle, dating back to the Middle Ages, located on the Carcere hill.
- The Palazzo della Marra, a late 19th century building located in the central Piazza Garibaldi.
- The Terra delle Gravine Regional Nature Park, a protected natural area of great suggestion.
- The WWF Oasis of Mount Sant'Elia, a place of great naturalistic interest.
- The Stornara nature reserve, located on the Adriatic coast of the city.
- The Carnival of Massafra, one of the most important and oldest in Puglia, which takes place every year in February.
Typical cuisine and local products
The Massafrese cuisine is characterized by a great variety of typical dishes, ranging from orecchiette to braciole, from stuffed peppers to fava beans with chicory. The city is also known for its high-quality products, such as Primitivo di Massafra Wine, extra-virgin olive oil, and durum wheat bread.
Conclusions
Massafra is an enchanting city that offers visitors the opportunity to discover hidden treasures and breathtaking natural landscapes. The city, with its millenary history, its many monuments, and its gastronomic excellences, is a destination not to be missed for those who want to discover the beauty and tradition of Puglia.
