Manduria

Travel Guide
Manduria showing street scenes and heritage architecture
Let one of the oldest towns in Puglia in southern Italy captivate you with its ancient history, archeological finds and winemaking heritage.

Manduria is a fascinating old city with a long and ancient history that is still in evidence today. Discover this history in the megalithic walls, archeological park, old churches and winemaking traditions. Wander through its narrow lanes to view historical treasures from bygone ages and taste wines that have been produced in the area for hundreds of years.

Manduria has more than 2,000 years of history. It was an important stronghold against attacks by the Spartans from Greece, and the King of Sparta died here in battle in 338 B.C.

Just outside the modern city is the Archaeological Park of the Messapian Walls, which has revealed much about the Messapians. These were an Indo-European people who lived in southern Italy in ancient times.

Visit the park's important sites, including a necropolis where nearly 1,300 tombs were discovered. See the enormous blocks of stone that formed the megalithic walls that used to encircle the city. Go to the Fonte Pliniano, a fountain that was described in a book by Pliny the Elder, a Roman author and naturalist. Another park highlight is the Chapel of San Pietro Mandurino, which features a crypt from the 8th century.

See other old churches when you’re back to the city. These include the Mother Church of Manduria, which dates back to the 11th century. Your captivating Manduria history lesson is not over yet, because there is still the medieval Jewish ghetto to explore.

Manduria also has a long tradition of winemaking, which goes back to ancient times. Its most famous wine is Primitivo di Manduria, a red wine made from Primitivo grapes. Learn about its history at the Museum of Primitivo Wine and enjoy a tasting session in the winery the museum is housed in.

To get to Manduria, fly into Brindisi, about 30 miles (48 kilometers) away or Bari, approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) away.

Manduria is an inland city, but if you want some fun on the beach, the coast is only few minutes’ drive away.

Where to stay in Manduria

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Specchiarica

While visiting Specchiarica, you might make a stop by sights like Ionian Sea and Rosario Church.

Specchiarica
Salina Hotel
Salina Hotel
4 out of 5
Via Mediterraneo, 1A, Taranto, Puglia
The price is NT$3,898 per night from Apr 3 to Apr 4
NT$3,898
per night
Apr 3 - Apr 4
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Taranto. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Conchetta di Posto Vecchio and Spiaggia di Porto ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (51 reviews)
"Beautiful newer, hi-tech hotel with fantastic food and drinks. Very attentive staff. Gorgeous rooftop infinity pool and terrace. Rooftop restaurant as well. Absolutely a must stay."

Reviewed on 2023/9/9

Salina Hotel
Relais Sant'Eligio
Relais Sant'Eligio
4 out of 5
Via Giosuè Pinto 48, Ostuni, BR
The price is NT$4,058 per night from Apr 2 to Apr 3
NT$4,058
per night
Apr 2 - Apr 3
Stay at this 4-star family-friendly hotel in Ostuni. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Museum of Preclassical Civilizations ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (161 reviews)
Pleasant stay in Ostuni
"Very friendly staff and excellent food. Location quiet but just a short walk to the old town. Fabulous view from terrace. Highly recommended"

Reviewed on 2024/3/20

Relais Sant'Eligio
Hotel Monte Sarago
Hotel Monte Sarago
4 out of 5
Corso Mazzini 233, Ostuni, BR
The price is NT$4,719 per night from Apr 5 to Apr 6
NT$4,719
per night
Apr 5 - Apr 6
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Ostuni. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions L'Ulivo Che Canta and Church of San Francesco ...
9/10 Wonderful! (175 reviews)
"Brilliant customer service - very kind and accommodating and helpful"

Reviewed on 2024/3/17

Hotel Monte Sarago
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Relais Patriarca
Relais Patriarca
Corso Vittorio Emanuele II 220, Ostuni, Provincia di Brindisi
Stay at this condo in Ostuni. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Piazza della Liberta and Church of San Francesco are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (7 reviews)
Unique dwelling, family accommodation
"My teenage girls loved this place. The pool was a hit regardless of the temperature being a bit on the cool side. Fabulous views out the the sea. The house was incredibly unique and characteristic inside the domed styled building. The kitchen as probably not overly practical in all fairness, but ..."

Reviewed on 2023/11/11

Relais Patriarca
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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