Soleto
Welcome to Soleto: a gem in Salento
Soleto is a town of about 5,200 inhabitants located in the province of Lecce, in Apulia, in the heart of Salento. The origin of the name Soleto is uncertain, but according to Pliny the Elder, it may mean "solitary". The city stands out for the particularity of being part of the Grecìa Salentina, an area where a language of Greek derivation, called Griko, is spoken.
Discover the territory of Soleto
Soleto is located on a small plateau 90 meters above sea level, equidistant from the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, and halfway between Otranto and Gallipoli. The town overlooks the Salento plain and the highest point is 106 meters above sea level in the "Specchia Murica" locality. Soleto borders the municipalities of Lequile, San Donato di Lecce, and Sternatia to the north, Zollino to the east, Corigliano d'Otranto to the southeast, and Galatina to the west.
The climate zone of Soleto is C and enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot and humid summers, with average temperatures of 9°C in January and 25.1°C in August. The average annual rainfall is 676 mm, with a minimum in spring-summer and a peak in autumn-winter.
The history of Soleto
Soleto was already inhabited in the proto-historic era, as evidenced by the discovery in 2003 of the "Map of Soleto", a very ancient map made by a Messapic people who settled in this area. The name "Salentum" was also found on coins minted in the area and Stefano Byzantine speaks of "Sallentia". In the sixteenth century, it was a Greek bishopric, then passed to the Knights of Malta and, finally, to the Bourbons. In 1861, with the Unification of Italy, it became an autonomous municipality.
Grecìa Salentina
Soleto is part of the Grecìa Salentina, an area of Salento where Griko, a language of Greek derivation, is spoken. Griko is a minority language in Italy spoken only in this area of Salento, but represents one of the many minority languages of the European Union. The Grecìa Salentina is composed of 10 municipalities, including Soleto, which represent a linguistic and cultural oasis in Salento.
What to see in Soleto
In Soleto, it is possible to visit the Basilica of Santa Maria delle Grazie, which houses a precious Leccese stone altar from the seventeenth century. The church of San Giovanni Battista, on the main square of the village, has a gabled facade with a Baroque portal. Moreover, it is possible to visit the Castle of Soleto, built in the fourteenth century, which today hosts cultural events and temporary exhibitions.
Traditions of Soleto
Soleto is famous for its Carnival, one of the oldest and most famous in Salento. The Carnival of Soleto dates back to the Messapic era and has been handed down from generation to generation. During the Carnival, the women of the village wear traditional costumes and themed parades take place. In addition, in Soleto, local festivities and fairs are held every year where typical Salento products can be tasted, such as taralli, hard wheat bread, and local wine.
Conclusion
Soleto is a gem in the heart of Salento, with its particular belonging to the Grecìa Salentina and its millenary history. In addition to the historical sites and traditions, in Soleto, it is possible to taste the typical cuisine of Salento and spend a vacation dedicated to relaxation and culture. Come and visit Soleto and discover the beauty of Salento!
