Taranto

Taranto
Bernard Gagnon · CC0 · source
Name	Taranto
Coordinates	40, 28, N, 17...
Region	Apulia
Province	Taranto (TA)
Elevation m	15
Area total km2	249.86
Population total	195227
Population as of	2023
Population demonym	Tarantino (singular), Tarantini (plural)
Postal code	74121-74122-74123
Area code	099

Taranto is a major coastal city in southern Italy, serving as the capital of the Province of Taranto and an important commercial and military port on the Ionian Sea. Founded in the 8th century BC by Spartan colonists as Tarás, it became a powerful city-state of Magna Graecia and a significant cultural center. Today, it is a key hub for the Italian Navy and hosts one of Europe's largest steel plants, blending ancient history with modern industry.

Geography

Situated on the northern coast of the Gulf of Taranto, the city is characterized by its position on a peninsula between the outer Mar Grande and the inner Mar Piccolo basins. This unique geography has historically provided a superb natural harbor, protected by the Cheradi Islands and the Capo San Vito headland. The urban area extends onto the adjacent mainland, with a climate typical of the Mediterranean region, featuring hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The surrounding Salento peninsula and the Murgia plateau influence its local topography and environment.

History

The city was founded in 706 BC by Phalanthos and Parthenian settlers from Sparta, becoming the only Spartan colony and a dominant force in Magna Graecia. It reached its zenith under the strategist Archytas, a friend of Plato, and was famed for its wealth, philosophy, and powerful navy, clashing with rival cities like Metapontum. Following the Pyrrhic War, it fell to the Roman Republic in 272 BC after appeals to Pyrrhus of Epirus. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was ruled by the Byzantine Empire, Lombards, and Arabs before becoming a pivotal stronghold for the Normans, Hohenstaufen emperors like Frederick II, and the House of Anjou. The iconic Aragonese Castle was built under Ferdinand I of Aragon. In modern times, it was a base for the Regia Marina and the site of the pivotal Battle of Taranto in 1940, where the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm launched a devastating aerial attack.

Economy

The city's economy has long been defined by its port activities, including commercial shipping, fishing—especially for mussels cultivated in the Mar Piccolo—and shipbuilding. Since the 20th century, heavy industry has dominated, centered on the massive ILVA steelworks, one of the largest in Europe, which has been a major employer but also a source of significant environmental controversy. Related sectors include metallurgy, petrochemicals, and naval engineering, with the Italian Navy's Arsenal being a key installation. Agriculture in the hinterland focuses on olive oil, wine, and dairy production, while tourism is a growing sector, drawn to the city's classical and medieval heritage.

Culture

Taranto possesses a rich cultural identity stemming from its Greek origins, visible in the National Archaeological Museum which houses exceptional finds from the region, including gold jewelry from the Tomb of the Athlete. The city is the namesake of the tarantella dance, historically linked to the ritual curing of bites from the Lycosa tarantula wolf spider. Notable religious events include the solemn procession of the Mysteries during Holy Week and the festival of San Cataldo, the city's patron saint whose remains rest in the Cathedral of San Cataldo. The Orchestra della Magna Grecia and the Alfonso Rendano Theatre are important cultural institutions.

Infrastructure

The city is a major transport node, served by the Taranto railway station on the Bari-Taranto and Brindisi lines, and by the A14 and SS7 Via Appia highways. Its port complex is among Italy's most important, handling commercial freight, the Italian Navy's fleet, and ferry services. The Taranto-Grottaglie Airport provides regional connections. Key urban infrastructure includes the swing bridge, the Ponte Punta Penna Pizzone viaduct, and the Acquedotto Pugliese aqueduct system. The presence of the University of Taranto and research centers linked to the CNR supports educational and technological development.

Category:Taranto Category:Cities and towns in Apulia Category:Populated places established in the 8th century BC Category:Port cities and towns in Italy