With the name of "Kale Polis" meaning 'beautiful city', Gallipoli is a pearl in the Ionian coastline of Puglia. It is an unusual city in that, the old town is set on an islet and is joined to the mainland by a bridge. The centre of this historic town is a tortuous maze of streets and alleyways all joining with a single circular road with runs along the ancient walls; and is a frequent object of admiration by its many holiday visitors. The origins of Gallipoli are lost in confusion; Diogenes of Alicarnasso believes it to be founded by the Spartan Leucippo, other historians believe it was founded in 389 back. by Sicilians fleeing to Puglia. In all probability though, it was founded by the Mesopotamians. It subsequently came under Roman imperial rule and was then sacked by the Saracens. Following this, the town was dominated by the Middle East and the city was "returned" to Greek rule, dress, language and laws that in no way represented the indigenous population. In 1284 Gallipoli was razed to the ground and completely rebuilt in the first half of the 13th century. It managed to resist the Turkish invaders in 1480 but fell 4 years later. It was during the Spanish domination of this part of Italy when Gallipoli was returned to splendour. The baroque influences, the churches and the private old residences are still incredibly beautiful and offer a prime reason to visit and have a summer holiday or alternatively a spring/autumn break.
On the islet of the ancient town it is possible to make out a medieval castle, which was annexed to the Fortress at Rivellino by a project of Francesco Giorgio Martini. The many churches, oratories and antique palaces make Gallipoli an interesting site. Worth mentioning are the Basilica of Saint Agatha with its majestic façade in local Leccese stone, and its wonderful paintings from the 16th and 17th centuries. Under the road to the town are two old oil presses which have been renovated and turned into restaurants complete with proof from the rocks of the production of olive oil in this area for centuries. Of further note is the fountain from the Hellenic period and restored during the renaissance period. It represents the workings of the Gods with the 3 nymphs of Circe, Salamona and Biblide.
Gallipoli's economy today is founded on its twin industries of fishing and tourism and no longer on the production of "Gallipoli Gold", the olive oil which was stored in the sea rocks and then distributed throughout the Mediterranean.
Characteristics of the coast around Gallipoli
The coastline has long stretches of fine sandy beaches. The bays of Gallipoli finish in the south at the point of Pizzo, which also has fine sand. The area is characterised by a crystal sea and interesting countryside.