Novoli
Welcome to Novoli, in the heart of Salento
Hello everyone! Today I'm talking to you about Novoli, a small town of about 7,500 inhabitants located in the heart of Salento, in Puglia. If you're looking for a peaceful place, surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Novoli is perfect for you.
Discover the beauty of the area
The territory of Novoli extends over an area of about 15 km²: at the foot of the small hill of Monte d'Oro, it is located in the Cupa Valley, a vast karst depression that extends around the Salento capital and is characterized by fertile lands and plenty of water. Here, the landscapes are breathtaking and there is a limestone terrain to the north, while the terrain is predominantly clayey to the south. The Novoli countryside is almost entirely cultivated with olive groves and vineyards that produce excellent wines, first among them being Negroamaro.
The municipality borders the municipalities of Campi Salentina and Trepuzzi to the north, the municipality of Lecce to the east, the municipalities of Arnesano and Carmiano to the south, and the municipality of Veglie to the west. Furthermore, two seas are located at a short distance: the Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea.
The history of Novoli
The origins of Novoli are not yet clear, but the village would have arisen around three ancient churches (S. Salvatore, S. Giovanni, and S. Maria Madre di Dio). The oldest evidence of human presence is found in the Cardamone caves and in the Pietragrossa district. Two tombs from the 6th century B.C. with their relative furnishings date back to Magna Graecia.
Since 1520, the fiefdom passed under the Mattei family and underwent a period of splendor. The family built the baronial palace and numerous churches, including the Church of Sant'Andrea Apostolo, the Church of Sant'Antonio abate, and the Church of San Salvatore with a characteristic octagonal shape. Subsequently, after the Mattei, the fiefdom came under the control of the Carignani until 1806 with the abolition of feudalism.
Events and traditions
Novoli is known for the Feast of Fire of Saint Anthony Abbot, which takes place every year on January 16th and 17th. During the festival, the people of Novoli light bonfires in the streets of the village, in honor of the patron Saint Anthony Abbot, protector of animals. The procession with the statue of the Saint is accompanied by the musical band and the snails, i.e. the faithful carrying candles and votive offerings hung on sticks.
Furthermore, in Novoli, the Madonna della Greca is also celebrated, and the festival takes place on the Sunday following Pentecost.
What to do in Novoli
Novoli is a perfect place for those who love nature and relaxation. Here, you can enjoy long walks in the countryside and taste the typical products of the area, such as Negroamaro wine and olive oil.
But Novoli is also an ideal starting point to discover the beauties of Salento: from here, you can visit the cities of Lecce, Gallipoli, Nardò, and Porto Cesareo, or set off to discover the most beautiful beaches in the area, such as Punta Prosciutto, Torre Lapillo, and Porto Selvaggio.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Novoli is a place that deserves to be discovered: a small village surrounded by nature, rich in history and traditions, which will offer you an authentic and unforgettable experience. Come and visit us and let yourself be captivated by the charm of Salento!
