Taranto is a coastal city in Puglia known as the “City of Two Seas,” positioned between the open Mar Grande and the sheltered Mar Piccolo. Its location has shaped a strong maritime identity, with fishing, mussel farming, and naval activity remaining important parts of local life. The historic center occupies an island connected to the newer city by the Ponte Girevole, while the waterfront extends around the two bodies of water. Taranto also has an unusually rich archaeological heritage, reflecting its importance as a major Greek settlement in southern Italy and its later development under Roman and Byzantine rule.

The old city contains some of Taranto’s most distinctive landmarks, including the Aragonese Castle, the Cathedral of San Cataldo, and the remains of a Doric temple. The National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, known as MArTA, is particularly important for understanding the city’s Greek and Roman heritage. Its collections include finely decorated ceramics, sculptures, coins, the Tomb of the Athlete, and the celebrated “Ori di Taranto,” a collection of ancient gold jewelry. The city’s Greek identity is also reflected in the dolphin symbol associated with Taranto’s ancient foundation and mythology.

Water remains central to Taranto’s landscape. The Mar Piccolo forms a large sheltered lagoon-like basin north of the historic center, with wetlands, underwater freshwater springs, and rich marine habitats. The Palude La Vela reserve provides habitat for aquatic birds and marine species, including seahorses. The Mar Grande opens toward the Gulf of Taranto and the Ionian Sea, while the Cheradi Islands lie offshore. Along the city waterfront, the promenade offers views across the harbor and sea, and boat excursions can provide opportunities to observe dolphins in their natural environment.

Taranto’s cuisine is strongly connected to the sea, particularly its famous mussels, which are cultivated in the waters of the Mar Piccolo and Mar Grande. Seafood markets and restaurants also feature oysters, fish, octopus, and other shellfish, often prepared simply with local olive oil and vegetables. Traditional Puglian foods such as orecchiette, focaccia, and taralli are also common. The annual celebrations honoring San Cataldo further connect food and maritime traditions, with boats from different parts of the city taking part in ceremonies on the water. These traditions reflect Taranto’s continuing relationship with its surrounding seas.