Discovering green gold: the incredible history of olive trees and oil mills in Salento
The Legendary Origins of Olive Trees in Puglia
Puglia, with its vast territory, is home to the most significant heritage of olive trees in Italy, with over 350,000 hectares dedicated to the cultivation of this precious tree, representing 25% of the region's useful agricultural surface. In the heart of this extension, the Lecce Salento shines with approximately 84,000 hectares of olive groves, which contain approximately ten million plants, of which 30% date back to centuries-old eras.
This olive richness has been recognized by UNESCO, which declared the olive trees of Salento and Puglia "heritage of humanity", a living testimony to the millenary history linked to the land. It is said that it was the Greeks who introduced this imposing plant to the region, linking its fate to mythological and sacred legends. The olive tree, sacred to the goddess Athena, according to legend, guaranteed Athens victory in a divine challenge, thus establishing its importance in people's culture and life.
Today, olive trees adorn the coats of arms of numerous Salento municipalities, as a symbol of their identity and history. Otranto, with its famous "Torre del serpe", preserves the image of the olive tree in its banner, perhaps to remember ancient legends or its importance in past maritime trade.
But the olive tree is not only a symbol, it is also the "green gold" that gives its precious olives, through which a precious and refined oil is produced. The tradition of oil production in Salento has its roots in history, with evidence dating back to 1300 BC.
The ancient Messapi can be considered among the first to introduce the cultivation of olive trees in Puglia, leaving a thousand-year legacy that is still reflected today in the ancient olive tree of Borgagne, dating back over 3000 years ago, and in the tradition of underground oil mills, true and its own jewels of industrial archaeology.
The “trappeto” and the workers
Most of the oil mills are dug into the rock: the oil trade, starting from the contacts that the populations of Salento had with the Byzantines in the 9th century, had almost completely replaced that of wheat, and therefore the "trappeti" were built precisely on the ruins of the granaries, which dated back to the "Messapian" age.
The environment of these mills gave the possibility of better conservation of the product and hid the processing phases and the "crew" from the view of enemies, as the group of workers in charge of the various processing phases, also called "trappitari", were called. and subjected to the supervision of the "Nachiro".
Throughout the period from November to the following May, the "trappitari" lived inside the oil mill, moving only during the holidays.
Inside the "trappeto" there were also animals, with their stables. Other areas of the "trappeto" were those that contained the "sciave", in which the olives were stored after harvesting and before pressing.
The wheel was turned with the help of a blindfolded mule and the crushed olives were finally pressed. Between the two operations the product was left to rest in the "fisculi". If we refer to the legends surrounding the "trappeti", we see that in addition to men and animals, in these places there were also the "aurochs" of the elves which the legend describes as annoying and mischievous.
The Recovery of the Underground Oil Mills of Salento: A Rediscovery of History and Tradition
An oil mill dating back to 1600 can be visited in Gallipoli. This is the one that is housed under Palazzo Granafei, right in the historic center of the Salento town.
Presicce, another locality in the Lower Salento, in the period from the 18th to the 19th century was known to all as the "underground city", precisely due to the presence of large numbers of underground oil mills. There is talk of 30 oil mills, all hidden beneath the main square of Presicce, in which the "lampante" oil was produced, which was subsequently exported to various European countries, but also served for local lighting. However, Presicce is a unique case in Salento and its characteristic is perhaps due to the presence of various surface aquifers in the area.
Other Salento centers with underground oil mills are Morciano di Leuca and Sternatia. In the first location there were around 20 oil mills, while in Sternatia there were 19, only one of which can be visited today. An underground oil mill currently being recovered is that of Noha, a hamlet of the municipality of Galatina and also in Vernole there is an oil mill from the 1500s, the Frantoio Caffa, which was renovated at the end of the last century after having "worked" until the early years of the '900. Among the other underground oil mills that can be visited we also find that of Specchia and that of Calimera.
Investing in the Heritage of Salento: A Unique Opportunity
The oil mills were not only attached to the ancient farms, but were widespread in urban centers.
Recently many of these oil mills have been recovered and renovated, and some have been made accessible to the public, and in others very suggestive structures have been created, from places for food and wine tasting to real spas.
Most of the oil mills were of underground origin, but a small part were above ground.
This last typology has allowed it to be recovered more easily by current architecture, and to become an integral part of the present, and to be used as real homes. These are buildings made of tuff stone, with typical star vaults, perfectly incorporated into the current town.
An excellent example is represented by the property that we offer for sale in Ruffano, a small but charming town in the lower Salento: https://www.immobilinelsalento.com/immobile/antico-frantoio-a-ruggiano/
Conclusion
The olive trees and underground oil mills of Salento are witnesses of a glorious past and a thousand-year-old tradition that continues to live on through the centuries. Through their restoration and valorization, these ancient places continue to inspire and fascinate visitors from all over the world, offering them the opportunity to discover the unique charm of Salento and its extraordinary history.
"Suspended Harmony: The Vaults in the Architecture of Salento”
The Leccese stone and the Carparo
Richness, beauty, solidity, three attributes that best define a material that has made, and continues to make, the history of a place. The Lecce stone, a limestone formation dating back to approximately 21 million years ago, is one of the main stones that make up the architecture of Salento, with a unique structure, color and compactness.
Among the peculiarities of this stone there is undoubtedly the fact that it contains, in the formation itself, fragments of shells, small fossils which enrich the structure geologically, but also clays, quartz which are added to a series of minerals which fortify it and make it even more more fascinating.
A stone widely used above all due to its widespread diffusion and the ease with which it can be worked, as it emerges from the ground naturally and is found throughout the Salento area, in immense quarries up to fifty meters deep.
Among the municipalities in which it is most widespread, Melpignano, Cursi, Maglie and Corigliano d'Otranto stand out, where stones of the main colors ranging from white to straw yellow can be found. Until the mid-20th century, extraction took place entirely by hand, until it changed completely in the last sixty years, with the introduction of modern machinery.
There is another type of rock that is often associated, if not even confused, with Lecce stone. We are talking about carparo, a calcarenitic stone which is very widespread in the areas of southern Salento especially, and deriving from the cementation of limestone rock sediments in a marine environment mostly.
Slangly called "tuff", it has the ability to take on different aspects on the outside, and is a material widely used in Salento construction, with a tenacious consistency and workable only with a chisel and axe. Its resistance, however, makes it a perfect covering especially for the external facades of buildings, especially for those exposed to bad weather and the corrosive action of salt, if facing the sea.
The Vaults and their origin
In the context of wall structures, the vault represented not only the highest manifestation of technical construction skills, but also and above all the culmination of the commitment of the creative faculties and the point of arrival of the primordial search for the most effective system for the horizontal closure of the space. It has constituted a system perfected with the contribution of both individual operational skills and available material. The traditional lack of wood necessary in the construction of flat coverings and roofs has forced the construction of the wall vault, which was also favored by the presence of workers with considerable skill and the availability of a stone that is particularly easy to work and quite resistant.
The construction of the simplest vault, the barrel vault, was nothing other than the repetition of another elementary structure: that of the round arch, which in turn represented the point of arrival of centuries-old experiences that began with the overcoming of the system architrave (two piers and an architrave) conditioned by the weight of the monolithic block. With the experience gained over the centuries, it was understood that the load on the monolithic architrave carried by the masonry above could be attenuated, if not eliminated, with the positioning of cantilevered ashlars (see Lion Gate of Mycenae) practiced, for example , in the roofs of the local trulli (furnieddhi, pajare), without the use of scaffolding (also called "fake arches").
The round arch had its maximum expansion and diffusion in the period of the Roman Empire and subsequently gave rise to numerous variations and applications, from bridges to aqueducts, to tunnels, with shapes gradually modified until including in the 18th century even the very widespread and typical trefoil arch of Nardò. The Romans loved the barrel vault so much that they built nothing without it, the Colosseum itself, a gigantic and unparalleled futuristic construction for those times, rested entirely on a long chain of barrel vaults which, on several floors, raised a of the wonders of the ancient world. In Lecce, one can observe, through the remains of the Roman amphitheatre, how the rooms, the corridors from one area of the arena to another and each sector of the monument were distributed through the vault.
In Salento there are not many other examples of vaulted buildings still standing that date back to those times. In the 5th century AD we find the Church of Casaranello (Casarano), whose vaults have also been decorated with very precious Byzantine mosaics, which in Italy have comparison only with those of Ravenna.
As the centuries passed, the vault was used not only for churches but also for castles and the noble residences of powerful landowners. This is the case of the Celsorizzo tower, in Acquarica del Capo, inside which there is a completely frescoed barrel-vaulted chapel.
The castle of Gallipoli presents within one of its bastions, one of the most gigantic and majestic vaults in all of Salento, so large that it cannot be photographed in its entirety with a lens.
Even the castle of Otranto, rebuilt in 1481, has an environment created with a reckless vault, the result of great architectural expertise: in this case too, to be able to appreciate it in photos, you need to observe two of them, taken from different angles. An authentic technical masterpiece.
Just as the round arch represents the original element of the barrel vault, similarly, the barrel vault represents the basic element of all the variations on the theme that have produced the numerous types of masonry vaults.
From the development of the barrel vault, the pavilion vault and the cross vault follow.
The pavilion vault is born from the union of some portions of the barrel vault, it is generally used for rooms and halls as it lends itself well to being frescoed in an almost continuous manner. The pavilion vault, or with pavilion heads, can be lowered and its central surface made horizontal with a plane that intersects it. This type of roofing, frequently used because it is more suitable for decoration with frescoes, is called a schifo vault, which in Salento has taken the name of a malrotta vault.
The cross vault, already known in Roman times, appears as the intersection of two identical barrel vaults. Two semicircular edges are created in the intrados that go from one corner to the opposite one. These edges can be crossed by a reinforcing rib called a rib, fundamental structural elements of this roofing and not simple decorations.
The local lords who retired to live in the countryside in the 15th century hired the best masters to build their farm, an architectural typology present throughout the province of Lecce, which in some cases represents the pinnacle of the use of the vaults known at the time , such as Masseria Barba ai Monti (Lecce), Masseria Barone Vecchio (Surbo), Masseria Monacelli (Squinzano), Masseria Papa (Lecce), etc.
The star vault
Known above all as a corner vault, it is rather recent compared to other vaulted roofs: there are no examples dating back to the 17th century. This
type of coverage is typical of Salento, so much so that it is often identified as a vault from Lecce; it originates from the need to adapt the materials available on site to the construction of solid, large and functional, but also aesthetically pleasing buildings. Due to these characteristics, the star vault can very often be found in churches and Baroque buildings in Lecce. Unlike the cross vault, of which it represents the evolution, the weight of the roof is not placed on the perimeter walls, but on four pillars, and the vault becomes more complex, with the addition of more evident ribs, which will give it the typical shape of a stylized four-pointed star. This type of vault is suitable for small to medium sized rooms as the lateral arch, being rounded, would make the structure too high.
The Church was the richest client, so we can admire wonderful vaults, completely frescoed, as inside the incomparable Santa Caterina, in Galatina. Or you can find them increasingly ingenious and effective, as in the Maria Santissima dell'Incoronata church, in Acquarica di Lecce.
The square vault, the apotheosis of the vault
While for the corner vault the pillars were made up of a square, in the square vaults the corner pillar has an "L" shape, this is because the relief points of the
vault, which functions in the same way as the previous one, are two for each pillar. In this case an eight-pointed star will be highlighted in the cap (two points per arm). For this reason it is also called "double star vault". From this it is clear that these vaults were intended for large rooms, where the loads were much greater than the corner vault. Beyond this, the "decorativeness" of this vault when brought into small spaces lost its effect. In fact, the minimum size of the rooms for its use was at least 6.00 x 6.00 m.
A curious feature found in the central key of the cap is the "signature" of its maker, usually represented by a cross (given the existing illiteracy) which due to its shape, size and positioning could be traced back to the creator of the artefact. For many, however, it only represents a sign of good wishes for the end of the work and a symbol for the owner that it was time to offer the "capicanal" (final banquet to be offered to the workers, still in use, in many places, even with other types of constructions), and then settle the payments. The protection of the building, however, was entrusted to a holy card brought by the owner and buried either in the foundations or at the base of the hanging.
Then came the stately palaces, such as that of the Castromediano barons, in Cavallino, whose visitor who happens to observe the vault of its large gallery hall cannot help but be amazed by its grandeur, height and artistic beauty! A journey, the one in the artistic vaults of Salento, which still challenges the past and contemporary world today!
Conclusions
The vaults populate the villages of this sunny land, the peasant neighborhoods, the humble country homes, up to the churches and palaces. On the one hand, simple architecture, on the other, monumental, ecclesiastical and noble architecture. Distant worlds, linked by the same creativity that is a fundamental part of these valuable geometric works. There is not only technique in the construction of vaults: there is manual talent, there is organization and also intellect. Behind a building tradition that has marked the residential settlements of the province of Lecce, there are therefore numerous meanings which, in some ways, recall art and anthropology. A typical building artefact fully enters the world of art when its reproduction over time is characterized by the introduction of rules into the production process.
Rules of harmony, measurement, interweaving and specialization and not simple repetitiveness. The mechanism is not that of serial copies, but of a reference model from the past, handed down from generation to generation. Rules therefore that give the construction of vaults beauty and static nature, formal decoration and durability, creative occupation of space and a suggestive image that remains intact over time.
An art which, however, cannot be defined as authorial: it is impossible, in fact, to trace the origin of the vaults, to trace their genesis. There is no name of the first inventor, nor his date of birth, because the star vaults are the result of the experience of a collective subject, of the people, of masters who, over the years, have perfected the technique, protecting it from any degeneration.
The art that evolves over time, improving, also brings with it the traces of the changes of the man of Salento, who has changed his relationship with the earth, with the surrounding environment: hence the link with anthropology, that science that delves into the spiritual and behavioral dimension of man. In distant times it was built for various reasons: to shelter, first of all, but also to raise monuments to the divinities, to give life to rites and liturgies that have made the history of Salento. This still happens today.
Two ways, therefore, to "read" the vaults: as beauties to be admired and as signs of a language to be interpreted.
The Charm of the Gardens in the Heart of Salento: Between History, Beauty and Nature
Introduction:
Salento is not only known for its natural, cultural and architectural beauty, but also for its enchanting gardens. For centuries, these green spaces have been an integral part of the social and architectural fabric of the region, reflecting the beauty, history and passion of its inhabitants. In this article, we will explore the definition of the garden and the importance of gardens in Salento, from the homes of the historic centers to the sumptuous noble palaces, from the hanging gardens to modern landscape interpretations.
Definition of Garden:
The garden, in the collective imagination, evokes a place of beauty, tranquility and rebirth. But it is much more than just a green space. It is an ever-evolving work of art, a refuge for the mind and spirit, a habitat for flora and fauna, and sometimes even an extension of the identity of those who create and care for it. In Salento, gardens take on different shapes and meanings, but they all share a deep connection with the history and culture of the region.
Gardens in Historic Centers:
The historic centers of Salento are often characterized by narrow paved streets and ancient homes that overlook secret courtyards and secluded gardens. These gardens, small hidden treasures, represent an oasis of tranquility in the heart of lively urban life. With their lush plants, fountains and stone benches, they offer a refuge from the hot summer sun and a meeting place for families and friends. Often there are citrus trees, which in spring with their flowers create an inebriating scent, and numerous succulent plants, resistant to sunny summer days.
Gardens of the Noble Palaces:
The noble palaces of Salento, evidence of the region's glorious past, are often surrounded by sumptuous Italian gardens. These gardens, designed with mathematical precision and enriched with statues, pergolas and fountains, were conceived as an ideal backdrop for aristocratic life. Today, some of these gardens have remained privately owned, and enriched with swimming pools and other contemporary elements, many others, however, are open to the public, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur of the past and the timeless beauty of nature.
Roof garden:
Especially in the historic centers of Salento, where the availability of green spaces is more limited, hanging gardens have become a solution for optimizing green space in a densely populated urban environment. Suspended between the walls of ancient cities, this type of gardens, with very ancient origins (around 590 BC), create a unique and evocative environment for anyone who has the privilege of visiting them. An example of this is the Palazzo Ducale of Presicce, which on the terrace boasts the presence of an Italian-style hanging garden of around 10 ares, enriched by a fountain and a belvedere, now always open to the public, as it is property of the Municipality of Presicce – Aquarium.
Gardens of the Villas:
The historic villas of Salento, places of holiday and leisure, are often surrounded by large landscaped gardens, where the art of gardening blends harmoniously with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Here, among centuries-old trees, flower beds and shady paths, you can find corners of serenity and contemplation, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. One of the richest examples is the one we find in the majestic villas of Santa Maria di Leuca, all built in the second half of the 19th century. These homes are mostly still privately owned, but for some years a day has been dedicated to public visits to their parks and gardens.
Modern Garden in Salento:
In contemporary Salento, the art of gardening continually evolves to respond to the needs and challenges of the modern world. Sustainable gardens, urban parks and multifunctional green spaces are emerging as new forms of landscape expression, offering not only aesthetic beauty, but also environmental and social benefits for local communities.
“La Cutura” Botanical Garden:
Finally, we cannot talk about gardens in Salento without mentioning the "La Cutura" Botanical Garden, a hidden jewel located in the Giuggianello countryside, cited among the ten most beautiful gardens in Italy. Founded in 1986, this botanical garden has as its original nucleus an ancient farmhouse from the 1700s and its grounds, and today hosts an extraordinary collection of exotic and endemic plants from all over the world, blending wonderfully with the pre-existing architecture, creating a unique environment of discovery and wonder for botany enthusiasts of all ages.
Conclusions:
Gardens in Salento are much more than simple green spaces; they are living testimonies of the history, culture and timeless beauty of the region. From the ancient homes of the historic centers to the sumptuous noble palaces, from the hanging gardens to modern landscape interpretations, these enchanted places continue to inspire and enchant residents and visitors, offering a taste of the richness and diversity of Salento's natural and cultural heritage.
Villas, Casine, Casini. The architecture of suburban residences in Salento in the second half of the 18th century.
When we delve into talking about noble and ancient villas in Salento, first of all it is necessary to specify the reasons why these beautiful buildings were built. The Masserie are initially the places where the farmer lives to never move away from the countryside; the Casini, the Villas and the Casine are successive architectures that originate following the need of the landowner to temporarily move to live in the countryside.
Salento's economic delay and consequences on architecture
It is appropriate to say first of all that Salento has always been a relatively poor land and that the obstacles to development are and have been numerous: among these the presence of land used exclusively for grazing, the presence of vast areas of scrub, the presence of swamps and marshes, the spread of extensive cultivation, the invasions of the Turks, the persistence of backward cultivation techniques, the short-sighted attitude of landowners.
In the southern areas, during the eighteenth century, the olive growing crisis and the growing demand for wine on the European market led to a profound rural transformation.
The architecture begins to change following the spread of vineyards
The spread of the vineyard was to the detriment of olive groves and cereal cultivation and had a significant impact on new forms of rural construction. In fact, in the areas where this new culture spread most, there was a transformation of the landscape and the architecture of the homes. The vineyards, managed more complexly, required the constant presence of the farmer and, alongside the traditional farmhouse, the homes of the farmer, the sharecropper or the small owner were added.
In fact, the farms, although architecture aimed at the defense of the territory, are often enriched with elegant decorative elements such as monumental wells, sumptuous rooms and enormous fireplaces, coats of arms placed in plain sight, all elements borrowed from city architecture and which attribute to the fortified rural construction an aristocratic sign.
The farms were still far from real villas, typical of Northern Italy, or from the typology of the rustic villa of the Roman era. These are very often buildings of a monumental nature which, with their decorative features, mark the difference with the simple and poor homes of the farmers.
Baroque in the countryside
Starting from the second half of the eighteenth century, a compromise was reached between city and countryside. Thus it was that on the outskirts of the most important inhabited centers, such as Nardò and Lecce, and where there was the most fertile land, elegant residences arose which still today bear witness to the spread of the Baroque even in rural environments.
Therefore in this phase there were two parallel and contemporary processes of architectural development in the countryside: in many cases the old farms were revived, providing new decorations, various embellishments and often they built on top of the original structure, so much so as to deliberately mask the structural physiognomy of the ancient building; at the same time, villas, casinos, cottages and gardens were built from scratch.
The spread of the country casino is the confirmation of a new mentality, arising from the fact that the new bourgeoisie was aware of the fact that agriculture was the pillar of the economy.
Refuge in the countryside becomes a necessity
But beyond the purely economic interest, the fact remains that starting from the second half of the 1700s the need to move to the countryside only for a healthy retreat began to be felt. This exodus was then encouraged by the scarcity of food products and the continuous spread of epidemics due to the heavy rains that raged in the Lecce area.
The Villa and the Casina
The villa is usually an imposing building, belonging to noble families or in any case to the upper middle class, which features architectural friezes, is treated in detail and is surrounded by a park made up of ornamental plants, in order to make the stay more pleasant. It is almost always at the center of an agricultural activity, so, apart from rarer cases of purely holiday residences, in addition to the manor house, it contains rural blocks of flats such as the settlers' homes, stables, garages and factories. The villa, like the little house (very often the two terms are interchangeable) shows a detachment from the rural environment and the activities connected to it, as they are often richer buildings, surrounded by a park and preceded by shady avenues with ornamental plants. Here some architectural details are highlighted such as the columns at the entrance, the arches, the terraces and the staircases.
The Valley of Cupa
From a geographical point of view, the Valle della Cupa is made up of a large karst depression and has well-defined borders: in the center of the area is the city of Lecce and around a series of towns. Among others, the following are part of the Valle della Cupa area: Campi Salentina, Novoli, Carmiano, Arnesano, Monteroni, San Pietro in Lama, Lequile, San Cesario, Cavallino, Lizzanello. The fertility of the soil, the ease of access to water and the proximity to Lecce have already in ancient times made the Valle della Cupa one of the favorite destinations of the aristocracy of the capital. Due to their historical-artistic interest, many of the buildings within the area are under the protection of the Superintendence. Many noble families of the capital chose this landscape to build hunting or holiday residences. In the first outskirts of Lecce, near the road that leads to San Pietro in Lama, you can start the journey by visiting Villa Mellone, an enchanting noble residence dating back to 1784. The door and balustrades on the first and last floors ask you to look up to fully enjoy it. The private chapel and the garden call for a broader vision to appreciate its beauty, also pushing the gaze into the surrounding countryside. In the same area you can visit Villa Franchini. In Monteroni then the splendid Villa Cerulli and Villa Romano. The latter was chosen as a film set.
The Casino
The country casino represents the new relationship that was established between landowners and farmers. Less sumptuous than the villa, the casino is in fact a type of home that combines the settler's house with the owner's seasonal home. Stylistically sober, and without ornamental parks, this residence often has two floors: the ground floor occupied by the farmer or gardener with the tobacco processing rooms, the warehouses and the wine cellar, while the upper floor saw the real residence landowner's home.
It turns out that the terms casina and casino, even if used interchangeably, express different housing typologies and at the same time represent a different conception of the relationship with the countryside and with the farmer's family.
The garden
The so-called Garden is different in both form and function and is simpler in construction. More commonly we can say that the garden is the settler's home where the crops are grown, usually greens and greens, then sold on the markets of the inhabited centers or on site.
In most cases the garden is a very simple building system, with one or two bedrooms and a large living room with some rooms for storing work tools. There was also a stable where a few animals were raised with herbs from the garden. This dwelling was widespread especially in the outskirts of the city with modest land areas.
The rural architecture of Salento, which has survived to the present day in fair conditions, reflects the economic and social history of the region, with its peculiarities and the external influences that have shaped its evolution over the centuries. A magical journey, which allows us to discover a more recent phase of the history of Salento, but not without its charm.
Exploring the magic of the Notte della Taranta in Melpignano, in the heart of Grecìa Salentina
In the heart of the splendid Italian region of Salento, there is an event that enchants and fascinates: the Notte della Taranta in Melpignano. This fascinating musical show celebrates the rich culture and tradition of Grecia Salentina, an area in Puglia where a strong influence of Greek culture persists.
Deep Roots
Grecia Salentina is a linguistic and cultural area located in the southern part of Puglia, where Greek traditions have deep roots. Here, the Greco-Salento dialect, known as griko, is still spoken by many inhabitants. The region is famous for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in music, dance and traditional festivals.
The “Grecìa Salentina” is made up of nine municipalities: Calimera, Castrignano dei Greci, Corigliano d'Otranto, Martano, Martignano, Melpignano, Soleto, Sternatia and Zollino.
Sternatia is the town where the ancient dialect language of Greek origin, "griko", is today best known and spoken among the inhabitants.
In the historic center, we can find numerous courtyard houses, ashlar portals and the baronial residence of Palazzo Granafei. The precious monumental palace was built during the first part of the eighteenth century, although the frescoes inside are later and dated 1775. Inside it houses a sixteenth-century underground oil mill.
Nearby Soleto was, even before being a Greek city, an important center of the Messapian civilization, as evidenced by numerous tombs and the discovery of the ancient enclosure walls. With the advent of the Eastern Empire, it was also an episcopal seat. The historic center is very beautiful, which still retains its medieval structure with very narrow parallel and perpendicular streets, with baroque portals and Renaissance noble houses. The most important monument in all of Soleto is the so-called Raimondello Spire. It is a large bell tower, but without a bell and erected exclusively for ornamental purposes, an example of Gothic art in Salento.
From Soleto we can easily reach Zollino, where we can admire above all the religious architectural constructions.
We then reach the town of Martano, one of the largest Greek-influenced villages in this area.
However, its territory was already inhabited a long time before as evidenced by the prehistoric menhirs of Santu Totaru and Teofilo. It was in the medieval period that Greek influence arrived, being inhabited by colonists from the Eastern Roman Empire and the Greek rite was preserved until the end of the seventeenth century.
The Grike dialect and traditions, however, still survive today. The historic center of Martano shows some parts of the ancient city walls, and some historic noble palaces built between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries, the most beautiful example of which is probably that of Palazzo Moschettini, equipped with a large, finely decorated portal and a long balcony equally valuable.
From Martano we move to Martignano. The origins of this center could themselves date back to the Greek period, in one of the important junctions that Lecce led to Otranto and Nardò. The most important monuments it preserves are the Parish Church, the Clock Tower and the Bell Tower, all united in a single structure.
We then reach Calimera, a town in which the Greek origin is already directly inherent in its name. “Calimera” in fact means “good day” in Greek. The history of the small church of San Vito which stands just outside the town center, in the countryside, is evocative. This small church open only on Easter Monday has a large boulder inside with a hole in the middle. Tradition wanted people to pass through the forum to propitiate fertility according to an ancient pagan rite. The church was built around the boulder precisely to "Christianize" it too and thus prevent pagan rites from continuing to perpetuate themselves. However, the tradition has been preserved to this day and every Easter Monday many inhabitants of Calimera reach it to pass through the boulder.
Castrignano dei Greci. Here too, the origin is evident in the very name of the town, which is therefore thought to have been founded directly by a population coming from the Eastern Roman Empire and was certainly inhabited by the Byzantines between the 6th and 9th centuries.
On the other hand, the buildings of the time are no longer present and the most important monuments remain the nineteenth-century Parish Church of the Madonna SS. Annunziata and the sixteenth-century Gualtieri Castle, adapted as a baronial residence on an older pre-existing building.
Corigliano d'Otranto, also Greek from the 6th to the 9th century. Its ancient castle from 1465 (Castello dei Monti) resisted the terrible Turkish attack of 1480, so that it is still today a source of pride not only architecturally, but also purely historical. The visual impact is truly majestic, bringing to mind the classic concept of a "medieval castle": four towers at each corner, surrounded by a large moat which was once accessed via a drawbridge.
Not far from Castrignano lies Melpignano, today very famous due to the famous Notte della Taranta. This village was also inhabited by Greeks and the Greek rite was preserved until the sixteenth century.
In the historic centre, the beautiful Piazza San Giorgio is worth seeing, where the parish church, round-headed Renaissance porticoes and the Clock Tower built at the beginning of the twentieth century are located. Also important is the Church of the Virgin of Carmelo, with an imposing façade built in the mid-17th century and enriched with baroque details by Giuseppe Zimbalo. Finally, it is worth taking a trip to the seventeenth-century Palazzo Marchesale.
The Night of the Taranta: A Unique Experience
At the heart of this vibrant culture is the Notte della Taranta, an event that celebrates the traditional music of Salento, in particular tarantismo, an ancient healing ritual through music and dance. The event culminates with a large concert in the picturesque town of Melpignano, where musicians from all over the world come together to play pizzica, a traditional Salento musical genre.
The magical atmosphere of Melpignano
Melpignano offers the perfect setting for this extraordinary celebration. During the Notte della Taranta, the streets come alive with colours, sounds and scents, while visitors completely immerse themselves in the magical and engaging atmosphere.
An unforgettable experience
Participating in the Notte della Taranta is an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves music, dance and culture. Visitors can enjoy not only the main concert, but also a number of side events, such as pizzica lessons and performances by local artists. It is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and tradition of Salento, while creating an experience of sharing and celebration with people from all over the world.
Conclusions
The Notte della Taranta in Melpignano is much more than a simple concert; it is a journey through the history, music and culture of Salento. This magical event captures the essence of Grecia Salentina, offering visitors an authentic and unforgettable experience. If you are looking for cultural and musical adventures, there is no better place to be than here, in the heart of Puglia, during the Notte della Taranta.
The timeless charm of Salento architecture: a journey through the historic centers and local furnishings
In the heart of the splendid Italian region of Salento, a land rich in history, culture and natural beauty, there are hidden architectural treasures that tell millenary stories. The historic centers of Salento, with their narrow and winding streets, ancient squares and historic buildings, enchant visitors with their timeless atmosphere.
Salento Architecture: a cultural heritage
The architecture of Salento is a fascinating fusion of styles that reflect the many historical influences that have shaped this region over the centuries. From the remains of ancient Greek cities to the vestiges of Roman rule, from the testimonies of the Byzantine period to the Baroque era, Salento is home to a rich architectural heritage that stands out for its unique beauty and majesty.
The historic centers, such as those of Lecce, Gallipoli, Otranto and numerous other villages, present fascinating architecture characterized by imposing facades, elaborate details and intricate inlays in Lecce stone, a local limestone known for its softness and its ability to be carved with precision. Santa Maria di Leuca and the Valle della Cupa are two of the places with the greatest architectural expression of private luxury homes, which manifests itself in large Art Nouveau villas, still visible and partly visitable today.
Private homes are those that embody in the most authentic way the essence of the life and everyday life of the people who have populated these lands, treasure chests of their customs and their culture.
These homes range from the smallest and most humble, up to the large manor house, but although they differ from each other in size and details, they have a single common denominator: the star vault. The latter, created with skilful patience with the interlocking of tuff blocks, gives majesty to every environment, even the most humble.
Other elements that characterize the typical Salento houses are the courtyards, the courtyards, the gardens, the terraces, i.e. outdoor spaces where the exchange of daily life between families took place, who sometimes lived almost in symbiosis.
Traditional Furnishings: between history and modernity
Traditional Salento decor reflects the rich history and traditions of the region, with influences ranging from local craftsmanship to contemporary trends. Hand-carved solid wood furniture, colorful fabrics and ceramics decorated with traditional motifs are just some of the features of Salento furnishings that capture the attention and imagination of visitors.
Ceramic is a distinctive element, with its bright colors and designs inspired by nature and everyday life. Salento ceramics are often used to decorate plates, vases, tiles and art objects, adding a touch of color and originality to domestic environments.
The traditional houses of Salento are characterized by welcoming and rustic interiors, with floors in local stone or cement tiles, vaulted ceilings and whitewashed walls. The furniture is often custom-made by local artisans, using fine woods such as walnut, cherry and olive, and are often decorated with inlays and carvings that enhance their beauty and craftsmanship.
The modern reinterpretation of Salento aesthetics
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in traditional Salento furniture, with many designers and interior designers reinterpreting traditional shapes and motifs in a modern way. This trend has led to the creation of contemporary furnishings inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Salento, which combine traditional materials with clean lines and innovative designs.
Salento's homes and public spaces increasingly reflect this fusion of tradition and modernity, with interiors that mix antique furniture with contemporary design pieces, and that celebrate local craftsmanship and traditional techniques alongside innovative and sustainable solutions.
In recent times, a lot of space has been given to the recovery of ancient objects, which, no longer being used for their original purpose, are given new life, with new uses and uses, as in the case of wooden ladders, now used as coat hangers or plant holders, and large amphorae, once used for storing wine and oil, which now embellish courtyards, gardens and living room corners.
Focusing attention on the materials used, in addition to the aforementioned Lecce stone, tuff, wood and ceramic, cotton, linen and wicker are widely used, manifested in tablecloths and curtains, chairs and baskets.
The dominant color is white, the only one capable of attenuating the heat of the summer sun of this land, accompanied by a palette that ranges from earth tones to pastel colors, up to the most lively and vibrant tones.
A minimal - chic furniture, therefore, with clean lines, but never too precise, which leaves room for the simple but refined shapes of craftsmanship.
Conclusions
The architecture and furnishings of Salento represent a precious cultural heritage that enchants and inspires visitors from all over the world. Through their timeless beauty and their ability to tell millenary stories, the historic centers and traditional interiors of Salento continue to be a source of inspiration for artists, designers and culture enthusiasts, helping to preserve and enhance the unique identity of this fascinating corner of Italy.
Exploring the Salento countryside: Hidden Treasures among Rock Caves, Dolmens, Menhirs and Pajare
The breathtaking beaches, the crystal clear waters and the ancient traditions that have remained unchanged over the centuries up to the present day are the elements that first and foremost push us to visit the Salento peninsula. However, in addition to these fascinating aspects, Salento preserves an extraordinary archaeological and natural heritage in the hinterland, which manifests itself in its mysterious rock caves, imposing dolmens, enigmatic menhirs, suggestive mirrors, characteristic pajare and lamie.
Rock Caves: A Journey into the Past
Even today we can admire the rock caves in the Salento countryside. Of karst origin, and often of an underground nature, these settlements set in the rock represent in large numbers the evidence of human presence since the prehistoric period, and manifest themselves in a fascinating labyrinth of tunnels and chambers.
Initially used as shelter, and for the celebration of mystery cults, with the advent of Christianity they were transformed into hermit places, or places of worship, taking the name of crypts, and enriched with brightly colored frescoes, in Byzantine style, which in part have survived to the present day. In other cases they were used as oil mills, exploiting the natural cavities in the ground.
Outside of these caves, in many cases real self-sufficient rock villages arose, actively inhabited until the 14th-15th centuries AD. of the Middle Ages.
In the locality of Macurano, in the municipality of Alessano, we find one of the most representative complexes of this typology.
Dolmens and Menhirs: Mysterious Megalithic Constructions
Among the centuries-old olive trees and dry stone walls of Salento, majestic dolmens and menhirs stand, evidence of the ancient civilization that populated this land. The characteristic element is their megalithic nature, that is, the fact that they were made with large single blocks of stone, monoliths, which in the case of the dolmen were arranged both vertically and horizontally, to create a tomb, while in the case the menhir was a monolith placed in a vertical position with respect to the ground, which could fulfill a funerary, auspicious and fertility, or astral function.
More discussed, however, is the origin and function of the mirrors, as according to some scholars they date back to the Neolithic, while for others they are to be found in the Messapian era, and even their function has not yet been completely clarified: being of the constructions built dry, with limestone, which formed a sort of turret, according to some paleontologists the mirrors were nothing more than the ruins of ancient and very large houses, which vaguely recall the structure of the trulli, while for others these structures were born as tombs or with the purpose of defense, being stone lookouts. Giudignano is the municipality with the largest number of dolmens, which scattered throughout its countryside are easily visible, and we find others especially in Minervino di Lecce, Melendugno and Salve.
The tallest menhir in Italy is located in Martano, where the "Menhir de Santu Totaru" measures over five meters in height, while near Giurdignano you can count over fifteen.
The Specchie di Martano, Ugento and Cavallino are very well known, and among the most famous there are also the three Specchie di Salve, known as Specchia Cantoro, Spriculizzie and Fersini. Another very important Specchia is that of the Mori, located in the Martano area, famous above all for its 6 meters of height: in fact it represents one of the most majestic structures present in the Salento area.
Between dolmens, menhirs and mirrors, there are over one hundred of these monuments throughout Puglia, of which much is still to be discovered regarding their rituality and who and why began to build them.
Pajare and lamie: Unesco heritage symbol of rural life
The history of this type of house is quite uncertain and in some cases controversial; their origin is certainly very ancient and, according to experts, can be dated back to 1,000 AD. approximately, in the Byzantine era, with the resulting material from the clearing of agricultural land, material with which the numerous dry stone walls were also built. But we cannot even rule out an origin in a much more ancient era, between 2000 BC. and the end of the Bronze Age, as an evolution of megalithic constructions such as mirrors.
One thing is certain, however, that the pajare are homes that are fully part of the landscape, and constitute a further architectural note of the territory. Conical in shape, they were built using stones of different sizes, both superimposed and fitted together, with a roof that is supported by the stones that form the walls.
Salento farmers used them as a place to spend rest periods after working in the fields, or as a refuge in case of sudden storms or downpours. In other cases, especially in summer, the pajare could also serve as a home in order to remain close to the fields.
Very widespread and appreciated, due to the presence inside the barrel vault, the lamia (or lama), an evolution of the pajara, with a rectangular plan and a large terrace, which lent itself to the same functions.
The pajara has its apotheosis in the colossal "Pagliarone Ferrante" (named after its owner), located in the countryside of Ruffano, which measures 26 meters wide on the entrance side and 13 on the other side, forming a rectangle composed of two domes and smaller rooms all placed together in a single body. Among the others of large dimensions we remember the elegant pajara in Salve, in the Scafazzi area, which is spread over five floors, and the Pajarone of Acquarica del Capo, of fine workmanship, with a truncated cone shape which rises on three steps to which It is accessed via six opposing flights of stairs.
Nature trails: visit the Salento countryside
In this article we have seen how the red earth of Salento is still dotted with archaeological evidence integrated with today's landscape, bearers of a history that leaves many questions still open, but at the same time allows us to understand the reality of Today.
And precisely for this purpose, numerous groups have recently been created which take care of accompanying anyone who wishes to participate in visiting the most hidden and least known part of the Messapian territory, where between red earth, dry stone walls and more than 1,500 different plant species , the architectural forms of the past are easily accessible.
In conclusion, Salento reveals itself not only as a first-rate seaside destination, but also as a true archaeological and naturalistic treasure, rich in history, charm and beauty. A unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the thousand-year history of this fascinating region, discovering the secrets and hidden treasures that still characterize its identity today.
The real estate market in 2021
The real estate market in 2021
In February 2021 on this blog we tried to analyze the impact of the pandemic caused by the COVID 19 virus on the Italian real estate market, focusing in particular on the residential real estate market. A picture had emerged whose tints were less gloomy than expected, a 14% drop in overall transactions for the year 2020 was more than justified by the months of total lockdown, a slow recovery in the summer months of the same year. and again the decline due to the rise in infections and the consequent new restrictions contributed to creating a climate of partial confidence, conditioned by the outcome of the national vaccination campaign and the rebound of the general economic framework.
Now that over 80% of Italian citizens have received at least the first dose of the vaccine and the forecasts for the Italian GDP all travel around the value of + 6%, let's try to take stock of the situation again. To have an analysis as consistent as possible with that of last February, we will use the same sources, namely data from Istat, the Revenue Agency and Nomisma.
The general trend of the market
House prices rose in the second quarter of 2021: this is confirmed by the recent publication of the Istat Index, this rise in house prices is mainly due to the increase in the values of new homes (+ 2%), while existing house prices (+ 0.1%). But also on the sales front there is an expansion in volumes, especially in the residential sector, as reported by the Real Estate Market Observatory of the Revenue Agency.
The growth is therefore double and concerns both "the cost of the brick" and the market, as the Real Estate Market Observatory of the Revenue Agency always reports: between April and June of this year, sales in the residential sector increased by 73.4% compared to 2020 (the latter period, which obviously suffered from the restrictions and difficulties associated with the pandemic period). According to Nomisma, the forecasts for the residential market for the next few years are also consistent with the climate of improvement and confidence in progress. The sales, as mentioned, will return to around 600 thousand in 2021, to reach 651 thousand in 2023, recovering the forecast levels of 2019. Purchase intentions (in particular, the purchase of the first house or replacement of the same) they have therefore experienced a surge: from 2.4 million to 3.3 million families willing to invest in the real estate sector in the last year.
Also according to Nomisma, the interest of Italians is clearly shifting towards the purchase of a home, prevailing over renting. 62% of the demand (6 percentage points more than the previous year) is represented by people wishing to buy a house and the average age of buyers is less than 45 years. The remaining 38% is oriented towards leasing.
Another fact to take into account that emerged from Nomisma's studies is the change in the valuation practices of properties, for example, among various factors, the assessment of the energy performance of the property has acquired a predominant importance, in fact a general repricing due to energy redevelopment interventions, in alignment with the provisions of the Superbonus, which provides for the jump of two energy classes.
Smart working effect
A paragraph of our article from last February was titled the same way, given the evident impact of smart working on workers' habits during the pandemic, but is there still a "smart working effect"? Yes undoubtedly, but beware, as a study by Cushman & Wakefield, one of the largest private companies in the world real estate market, highlights, the future of offices will not be binary: we will not only work in the office or only from home, but a hybrid model will prevail. The office as we have known it to date will not die completely, but its role in the workplace of many will undoubtedly be different and office work will be less frequent than before the pandemic. It is therefore reasonable to predict that the "escape from the city" in favor of the countryside and the suburbs will be a trend in the real estate market for a long time to come.
Ecobonus
How is the measurement going? One year after the launch of the 110% Superbonus, again according to Nomisma's studies, it emerges that sworn interventions are growing, but not at the expected speed, especially due to regulatory uncertainty. In particular, there is a decrease in potentially affected families, compared to May 2020, and still a reduced rate of involvement of condominiums which, we recall, are the main realities for which the initiative was designed. For further information on the eco-bonus and other home bonuses, find other articles in our Blog section.
Financial benefits for large, medium and small businesses
PIA TURISMO 2015
What do the Facilitation Programs provide?
Finally, thanks to the notice of the official bulletin of the Puglia Region, large, medium and small businesses can apply through the online procedure "PIA TURISMO" made available at www.sistemapuglia.it to take advantage of financial endowments made available provision for real estate redevelopment projects.
Let's better define who the beneficiaries are:
• Large-sized companies in the ordinary accounting regime which, on the date of submission of the application, have approved at least two financial statements;
• Medium-sized companies under ordinary accounting which, on the date of submission of the application, have approved at least two financial statements;
• Small businesses under ordinary accounting which, at the start of the request, have approved at least three financial statements from which an average turnover of not less than 1 million euros can be distinguished;
In addition to the subsidies, initiatives such as investment programs for the realization of:
1. Tourist-hotel activities, thanks to the physical and efficient recovery of unfinished structures, started in a legitimate way, destined for tourist-hotel activities;
2. Expansion, modernization and restructuring of tourist-hotel structures in order to raise quality standards and / or classification;
3. Construction of tourist-hotel facilities with a capacity of no less than 7 rooms to be consolidated, restored and / or rehabilitated any buildings of an artistic and historical nature, which at the time of submitting the application, the Declaration of interest was interposed cultural;
4. Consolidation, rehabilitation and restoration of rural buildings, farms, trulli, towers, fortifications in order to transform them into hotel structures with accommodation capacity of no less than 7 rooms;
5. Intervening on systems and structures to improve the quality of the property, such that it can favor tourism seasonal adjustment in the local area.
The costs allowed for those who choose the subsidy program:
The materials and expenses for the rehabilitation and construction must be used for the purposes of the program which is the subject of the request for subsidies. The eligible expenses are:
1. Purchase of company land and its accommodation within the limit of 10% of the investment in tangible assets;
2. Masonry and similar works;
3. New factory machinery, plants and equipment;
4. Purchase of patents, licenses, know-how and non-patented technical knowledge, new technologies of products and production processes, for the part in which they are used for the activity carried out in the production unit affected by the program, up to a maximum amount equal to 40% of the total investment.
In addition, expenses are allowed for:
• The acquisition of consulting services for business innovation and to improve the competitive positioning of local production systems concerning the environment, responsibility and ethics, business internationalization and e-business;
• Participation in trade fairs.
Bail-out vs bail-in
Why should you choose the investment of the brick?
A rule that entered into force on 1 January 2016 also in Italy, after the Chamber approved the "European delegation law" with (270 votes in favor, 113 against and 22 abstentions), provides that banks in default can draw from the accounts currents exceeding € 100,000.00 of account holders, including shares and bonds from customers - savers. This means that the bail-out, that is, the external bailout through the public coffers, is replaced by the bail-in, that is, the bailout of banks by drawing on internal resources. It is unacceptable to think that investors and shareholders can no longer rely on the concreteness of banks. From this it follows that investing in brick is the safest way to make a long-term investment.
IS BUYING A HOUSE A BARGAIN?
The answer is yes.
The markets today are not in good condition, also given last year's statistics which see the decline of 2.5% (according to the brokerage firm Tecnocasa), but thanks to the depreciated properties, investors can now deposit their savings in this type of market which is constantly evolving. In central and southern Italy at the moment, brick is considered a safer investment. The ascent towards an interest-bearing real estate market will be slow and not without its pitfalls, but it is expected that this year and the next year the sale will increase.