Taranto is famous for the gulf that shares its name on the Ionian Sea and for its territory, which extends across three natural peninsulas and an artificial island—the original nucleus of the city itself. It is also known as "the city of two seas" because of the Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo that surround it.

The name "Taranto" derives from "Taras," a figure in Greek mythology born from the union of Poseidon and the nymph Satyria. Another theory traces the name back to the Sanskrit "taranta-h," meaning sea. And that's not all: the local Tarantino dialect corresponds closely to the ancient Doric accent.

Taranto’s cuisine ranges from seafood-based dishes—naturally—to the rustic flavors rooted in the surrounding countryside. Of course, every dish must be seasoned with Taranto’s PDO-certified extra virgin olive oil. Among the must-try traditional dishes are: grilled octopus, pasta with mussels, and the famous orecchiette with turnip tops.

What to pair with these delicacies? Try local wines such as Aleatico di Puglia DOC, Martina Franca DOC, or Primitivo di Manduria DOC. If you’re a beer lover, taste the local Raffo beer. And don’t forget dessert: pettole are delicious honey-based fritters you simply must try.