What to see in Castellaneta: the spectacular ravine, the Baroque historic centre, the house and museum of Rudolph Valentino and Castellaneta Marina. How to get there from Taranto.
History
Castellaneta stands in a spectacular position on the edge of an imposing ravine, a limestone gorge over 100 metres deep and around 350 wide, in the heart of the Terra delle Gravine Regional Natural Park. The old town perches on the Archinto hill, ringed on two sides by the canyon.
Founded in the medieval era, in 1088 it became a bishop's see: still today Castellaneta heads a diocese comprising Ginosa, Laterza, Palagianello, Palagiano, Mottola and Massafra. The long succession of feudal lords has bequeathed the historic centre numerous aristocratic palazzi.
But Castellaneta is known worldwide above all as the birthplace of Rudolph Valentino (1895-1926), the legendary "Latin lover" and first great star of American silent cinema.
What to see
The historic centre has a medieval layout of white alleys and extremely narrow streets, yet holds treasures of fine Baroque. On the ravine's edge stands the Palazzo Baronale, in a scenic position sheer above the canyon, beside the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (or of San Nicola), raised in 1220 and remade in the eighteenth century, of which the elegant Romanesque bell tower remains.
The bond with Rudolph Valentino is felt everywhere: his birthplace, the majolica monument (1961) at the end of the "Passeggiata" dedicated to him, and the Rudolph Valentino Museum, housed in the former convent of the Poor Clares, with photos, posters, footage and memorabilia of the actor.
Completing the territory, the spectacular Gravina di Castellaneta with its rock settlements and the seaside district of Castellaneta Marina, set in one of Italy's finest Aleppo pine woods, with sandy beaches and dunes.
Did you know…
- Castellaneta is the birthplace of Rudolph Valentino, the first great star of American silent cinema.
- The actor's monument, made in majolica in 1961, is as famous as it is debated.
- The Castellaneta ravine is over 100 metres deep and around 350 wide.
- The Valentino Museum holds some 40,000 volumes as well as memorabilia, photos and posters of the actor.
Practical information
| Hours | The historic centre and ravine views are always accessible. Rudolph Valentino Museum: seasonal hours (check by phone); the birthplace and statue can be seen free of charge. |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Historic centre free. Entry to the Rudolph Valentino Museum for a fee (free under 13). |
| Accessibility | The historic centre has narrow alleys, steps and the rises and falls typical of an ancient town on the ravine. |
| Getting there | From Taranto: about 40 km along the SS7 Appia. By train on the Bari-Taranto line; the Ionian railway links Castellaneta Marina with Taranto. |
Not to miss
★ PremiumCasa 28 - Trattoria Urbana
📍 Via S. Francesco, 89, Castellaneta
Few tables and personalised attention, among the best restaurants in the area.
★ PremiumSale e Sarde
📍 Via Bachelet, 5, Castellaneta
Extremely fresh fish and attentive service, among the best restaurants in the whole area.
★ PremiumAnthurium
📍 Via S. Francesco, 86, Castellaneta
A pizzeria with a choice of Neapolitan or Bari-style dough, small but carefully run.
★ PremiumPeucezia
📍 Via Madonna Dell'Assunta, 35, Castellaneta
Overlooking the ravine, quality grilled meat and their own wine production.
Addresses for guidance: names, management and hours may change. Always check before visiting.
Full listing
Indicative list compiled from public sources. To be featured among our partners, contact us.
Tips for your visit
- Lean out from the belvederes by the Palazzo Baronale sheer above the ravine: the view is spectacular.
- Visit the Rudolph Valentino Museum to discover the story of Hollywood's first star.
- In summer, pair the historic centre with a day at Castellaneta Marina, between pine wood and beaches.
- Ask the Info Point about guided visits to the 'underground city' and the hypogea.