Sightseeing in Grecìa Salentina

From an architectural point of view, a characteristic monument of Grecia Salentina are Pozzelle, or underground tanks dug in karstic depressions to collect water. Here the locals would go with jugs and buckets to collect water, essential for both vital requirements and domestic needs, making it also a meeting place for a chat, tips and gossip. Next to the wells were stone troughs used for watering livestock. These water sources were present throughout the territory of Grecìa Salentina. Currently, the largest and most preserved Pozzelle is in Castrignano de’ Greci, but evidence of their presence can be seen in Martignano Soleto and Zollino. Other important monuments worth visiting are the spectacular Castle De Monti and the Lucchetti Arch in Corigliano d'Otranto; the Attic burial stone dating from the fourth century BC in Calimera; the Augustinian Convent, San Giorgio Square and the Palazzo Castriota Marchesale in Melpignano; the Palazzo Baronale in Martano; the Raimondello Orsini Tower in Soleto.