Brindisi - 9 things to do

by David S. - August 14, 2022 07:31

Located in the south of theItalyin the Puglia, Brindisi is a port city with centuries of history. Serving as a departure point for ferries to Greece or Albania, this gateway to the East is sometimes overlooked by visitors. And yet this seaside resort is a real tourist and historical treasure waiting to be discovered.

Indeed, it is not for nothing that the hero of Jules VernePhileas Fogg, chose to stop over there before embarking on the Suez Canal.

What to do during a stay in the province of Brindisi?

Tourists often pass through the city of Brindisi without lingering too long, thinking that there is not much to see. However, this natural harbour of the Italian peninsula is full of fun and cultural activities that won't let you get bored.

A visit to the historic city centre to recover from the trip

Strolling through the streets ofhyper historic city centreYou will be greeted by a landscape that has remained almost unchanged since antiquity.

As you stroll along the winding streets, you will have the chance to see the relics of the Roman Empire. At every corner you can admire themedieval architecture which has remained a witness to history. In this same city centre, you will find other remains such as the Templar portico, l'archaeological area of San Pietro, and even the balcony of Palazzo Balsamo.

A photo near the Roman Column, a real pillar of tourism in Brindisi

Still walking through the city centre, you can pass by this mythical column. The only survivor of two twin steles, they once marked the end of the Appian Way (the Via Appia), which was 500 kilometres long and linked Brindisi to Rome. This pillar is over 2,300 years old and stands in a small square with a magnificent view over the port.

A visit to the port and the Regina Margherita promenade

Going down the stairs from the Roman columnFrom here you will arrive at the harbour of Brindisi and the city's port. From here you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea and fishing boats. You can then take the Regina Margherita Walk to admire the liners and the building that pays tribute to Italian sailors. You can also take a tour of the harbour on the maritime shuttle to see the place from a different perspective.

A boat trip

Since you have just visited the harbour quay, why not take the opportunity to go for a boat ride? By renting a boat in Brindisi, you will be able to enjoy the landscape from a different perspective from the water. This is an opportunity not to be missed to live an unforgettable experience with your loved ones.

A visit to the monument to the Italian sailors, erected on the edge of the beach

This monument is a site that simply cannot be missed, as it is visible from almost anywhere in the city. It is a 68-metre high tower that dominates the entire bay. Built in 1933 following an architectural competition, it pays tribute to the Italian sailors who died at sea during the First World War. Built in the shape of a rudder, it has a chapel and a crypt. Once again, you will have a breathtaking view of the city from the top of this tower.

An exploration of the Alfonsino Castle

Also known as castello aragonese, castel rosso and castello di mareIt is a medieval castle dating from 15th century. This fortress is only accessible by boat as it is located at the estuary of the harbour. As soon as you disembark, you can explore every corner of the island and the castle at your leisure. If you come at dusk, you will be treated to a breathtaking sunset.

A tasting session of local specialities

After such an escapade, it would be more than normal to be a little peckish. That's why you should take a moment to taste the local gastronomy. Naturally, seafood is at the top of the list, given that Brindisi is a port city. You'll find incredibly fresh fish and seafood. And you can't talk about Italian specialities without mentioning pasta, which comes in different shapes depending on the region. The region we're interested in here is Apuliais known for its orecchiettes. This is a variety of pasta that you can eat with chickpeas or turnip greens seasoned with olive oil, garlic and anchovies. There is also the fritThe most popular dish is a fried bread with tomatoes and mozzarella cheese. For those who have a weakness for sweet dishes, you can go through a shop of spumone. It is an icy and creamy dessert made of hazelnut, chocolate and stracciatella.

A short diversions to the Francesco Ribezzo Archaeological Museum

Located Place de la CathédraleThis museum is an address not to be missed if you visit Brindisi. This monument serves as a conservatory and exhibition space for all the archaeological remains found in the area. Here you will find the splendid sculptures, crockery and everyday objects used throughout the city's 2,000-year history. You will also have the opportunity to admire the Greek bronze statues found in the sea in 1992.

A discovery of the rich religious heritage of Brindisi

To round off your stay in Brindisi, why not spend some time exploring its religious heritage? There are no less than six buildings in the city that are worth a visit. For example, you can visit the St. John the Baptist Cathedralon the Duomo square. There is also theChurch of St. John at the Sepulchre which, according to the stories, was a church of the Templar order. You can also go through theSt. Theresa's churchwith its baroque architectureand the beautiful church of Santa Maria del Casale which dates from 14th century.

How to get to Brindisi?

Brindisi is relatively easy to get to, whether by car or by plane. With France as your point of departure, the quickest way is by air. Several airlines operate flights fromairport of the town. You can also choose to make the journey by car or train if you want to get a taste of the region.

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David S.

Brindisi - 9 things to do

What to do during a stay in the province of Brindisi?

A visit to the historic city centre to recover from the trip

A photo near the Roman Column, a real pillar of tourism in Brindisi