Brindisi by night from the sea

There is something about a beach, a harbor, and the coastline in general that fills you with freshness and a sense of awe.  If you throw in a peak at a sunrise or sunset then you are doing even better.  If you are in the south of Italy there is much coastline to take in and see.  One such spot is the ancient city of Brindisi.

Brindisi is in the Puglia region of Italy.  Specifically the city lives on the south eastern coast, just north of Lecce.  It is an integral part of the Salento peninsula serving as the capital of the province of Brindisi and right on the Adriatic Sea.

Like its neighbors to the north and south this area also has a bit of Greek influence, started by the fact that it was founded as an ancient Greek settlement.  The poet Pacuvius was born here and the famous poet Virgil died here as well.  The city's name even derives its name from the ancient Latin Brundisium which comes from the Greek Brentesion meaning "deer's head", referring to the shape of its natural harbor.  The symbol also appears in its coat of arms, which includes a war cross for the civilian victims of World War II.

The port at Brindisi is its major draw and has been since its foundation.  The Romans made this a central port for their naval power and maritime trade.  It continued to be an active port as a major point of embarkation for Greece and lands eastward.  Before air transportation became so common, it was the gateway to the east for many.  The silk trade had its route through Brindisi.  Silk would be loaded from trains unto the English ships that continued the journey from London to Bombay.  The Crusaders used this port to sail to the Holy Land.  The significance of this port continues to this day as it is a major port for ferries taken to Greece.  The Italian Navy uses this port as does N.A.T.O.  It was also connected to Rome through the Via Appia and Via Traina.

Column marking Via Appia in Brindisi

As you move south, Italy changes a little.  The dialect changes some, the coast changes, the food a little different and there is a little more Greek-Italian Mediterranean feel.  You will find different languages spoken here, as well.  But, one thing is certain, you will sure to fall in love with southern Italy, too.

As with many Italian cities, it has seen its share of conquerors, earthquakes and destruction from World War II.  But, in true Italian fashion it has built up new again living harmoniously with remnants of years past.

The Castello Grande, built by Frederick II, typifies much of the ancient buildings here.  It was built in the 13th century with massive square towers and a unique trapezoid plan.  It has seen many uses over its long history including being used as a penitentiary in the 1800's.

The Aragonese Castle was built in 1491 on the S. Andrea Island facing the port.  Called the "Sea Fort" it dates back to the 1490's. The signature structure of Brindisi, though, has to be the two ancient Roman columns.  Only one of the two is now visible. The other crumbled in 1582, and the ruins was given to Lecce to hold the statue of Saint Oronzo (Lecce's patron), because Saint Oronzo was reputed to have cured the plague in Brindisi. The columns were once thought to mark the end of the Via Appia.  There is a small stretch of the old Via Appia that is still travelled by many today, although paved over.  That stretch opens up in downtown Brindisi highlighted by giant steps and the two columns.  Many take advantage of the downtown area by taking a stroll down the very steps that ancients have walked, although today it is usually for an ice cream and not to chase down Spartacus and his friends.  Those wanting a better feel for what life was like in those Roman times can take in the nearby archeological site of Ignazia which does showcase part of the Via Appia.

Duomo of Brindisi

The city played a role as World War II entered its latter phases, as well.  Between September 1943 and February 1944 the city functioned as the temporary capital of the Italy.  In addition it hosted King Vittorio Emanuele III and part of the Italian armed forces command.

Other sites worth taking in include the Duomo, built in the 11th and 12th centuries and restored in the 18th century after an earthquake.  Parts of the original mosaic flooring can be seen.  The Church of Santa Maria del Casale, with its façade of geometrical patterns, as well as the Portico of the Templars, both built in the 1300's beguiles any visitor with its architecture, engineering and art.

If you are looking for something off of the church tour path, then check out the natural preserve of Torre Guaceto and the Grand Fountain. The Romans loved their fountains which they built along the Via Appia.  It was restored in 1192.

Ferry dock in Brindisi

The city of 90,000 also is a great starting point to visits to outlying locales.  On one excursion Otsuni may be on your agenda.  Only 35 km outside of Brindisi, its array of Greek and Arabic architecture along with its festivals and cultural events during the summer make it an attractive destination.

Traversing up and down this peninsula avails one of the many amenities that are available to you.  Great food, wine, together with coastlines filled with beautiful sandy beaches and rocky cliffs make the journey a memorable experience.  However, the sea port town of Brindisi is a very charming old town.  Roman ruins, old piazzas and churches and, of course, the sea make this port of call a joy to experience.