• Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria - A 30-minute transfer from Lecce to Galatina.
  Explore the late Romanesque church of Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, constructed in 1390 by Raimondello Orsini del Balzo, the Count of Soleto. The interior boasts frescoes by artists from the “Giotto school,” making it the second most significant in Italy for its pictorial cycles, following the San Francesco d’Assisi Basilica.
• Centro storico di Galatina - Stroll through the old town to discover several aristocratic palaces built when Galatina was part of the Soleto county under “Giovanni Antonio,” the son of Raimondello and Maria d’Enghien, Queen of the Naples Kingdom from 1406 to 1414.
  Near the main square, find the Baroque church of San Pietro, rebuilt in 1633 on a former Byzantine (Greek-rite) structure. Nearby, the small Chapel of San Paolo houses a well believed to heal those bitten by poisonous tarantulas (known locally as tarantati or pizzicati, inspiring the famous Italian folk dance).
  Galatina is also renowned for its pastries, crafted for generations in local pasticcerie. At the most famous one, savor the “Pasticciotto,” filled with delicious cream.
• Guglia di Raimondello Orsini - Transfer from Galatina to Soleto, with a brief stop to visit the Raimondello Orsini Spire.
• Punta Palascia Lighthouse - A 30-minute transfer from Soleto to the Palascia lighthouse.
  The tall, white cylindrical lighthouse marks the easternmost point of Italy. Enjoy a splendid view of the Otranto coast while walking along the path.
  From here, transfer along the stunning cliff, passing through typical villages like Porto Badisco and Santa Cesarea Terme, heading to the Zinzulusa Cave (approximately 30 minutes).
• Grotta Zinzulusa - The grotto’s name derives from “zinzuli,” meaning “rags” in the local dialect, as the stalactites resemble hanging rags.
  The visit is divided into three parts: “La Conca,” featuring stalactites and stalagmites; “The Duomo,” with a vault about 25 meters high; and “Il Cocito,” where very clear waters flow, with fresh water at the top and brackish water at the bottom. It’s a true natural spectacle.
  The cave is not suitable for those with limited mobility. There are several steps to enter, which can be narrow, wet, and slippery, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
  The grotto visit lasts 30 minutes, with waiting times depending on the queue.
  Enjoy an independent lunch at nearby restaurants with lovely terraces by the sea.
• Castello Aragonese e Museo Archeologico Castro - A 5-minute transfer from Zinzulusa cave to Castro’s historic center.
  The town’s name comes from Castrum Minervae (Latin for “Athena’s castle”), an ancient Messapian town with a temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva.
  It is said to be where Aeneas, the ancestor of Rome’s founders, first landed in Italy after escaping the Trojan War (as reported by the Independent in April 2007).
  Visit the charming historic center and the Castle, which houses the archaeological museum with numerous Greek colony artifacts, and the site of the mythical temple with the recent discovery of a female statue from the 4th century BC, likely depicting the goddess Minerva.
  In the downstairs room, a large panel illustrates all stages of Aeneas’ journey, as recounted by Virgil in the Aeneid, before heading up to the tower to enjoy the breathtaking view.

• Private group tour with flexible schedule
• All fees and taxes included
• Zinzulusa Cave ticket
• Castro Archeological Museum ticket
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Independent city tours

• Lunch

This tour invites you to explore two significant cities in the Salento peninsula: Galatina, renowned for its captivating late Romanesque church, Santa Caterina d’Alessandria, constructed in 1390 and adorned with magnificent frescoes by artists from the Giotto school.

Next, visit Castro, an ancient Messapian town located approximately 20 kilometers south of Otranto. The journey follows a scenic coastal route, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs. Legend has it that this was where Aeneas, the forebear of Rome’s founders, first arrived in Italy after fleeing the Trojan War.

In Castro, explore the Castle, which contains an archaeological museum showcasing numerous artifacts from Greek colonies, and discover the legendary site of the temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva.

Descending the stunning cliffs of Castro, enjoy an unforgettable experience at the “Zinzulusa Cave,” where there will be an opportunity to swim in the clearest azure sea imaginable.

• Wear comfortable shoes
• The remaining hours of the tour will be spent on travel
• The visit to “Zinzulusa Cave” is not recommended for travelers with back problems.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.