Perched on ancient fossil dunes in northern Salento, Oria is one of Puglia’s most fascinating historic towns. With origins dating back to the second millennium B.C., it has passed through glorious eras under Greeks, Romans, Normans and Swabians. Its historic center, dominated by the imposing Castle of Frederick II and the majestic Cathedral Basilica, holds artistic treasures, centuries-old traditions and glimpses of rare beauty. Oria is also synonymous with engaging events, authentic flavors and a warm welcome: an ideal destination for those who want to experience the most authentic Apulia.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Discover Oria, a charming Salento village rich in millennial history, living traditions and architectural beauty. Among Swabian castles, Baroque cathedrals and medieval re-enactments, a journey into the authentic heart of Puglia.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":312413,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"the-village":"
Located on the heights of an ancient cordon of fossil dunes in the heart of northern Salento, Oria proudly dominates the surrounding Apulian plain. This thousand-year-old village is a treasure trove of history, legends and traditions, where every stone seems to tell of a different era.<\/p>\n
According to Herodotus, the foundation of Oria - ancient Hyria<\/em> - dates back to 1400 B.C., when a group of Cretans shipwrecked on the Ionian coast and decided to settle in the Oritanian hills. The city grew in prestige during the Roman period: in 265 B.C. it became a Roman municipality and was awarded the title \"Confederate City\" for its loyalty to the Empire.<\/p>\n In the following centuries, Oria experienced phases of alternating dominations: the Goths, Byzantines, Lombards, Greeks and Normans fought over the city, which between the 9th and 10th centuries housed one of the most important Jewish communities in Italy. It was then under the Swabians, and in particular with Emperor Frederick II, that Oria experienced one of its golden periods: between 1225 and 1233, he erected the imposing Swabian Castle and strengthened the city's defenses.<\/p>\n Over time, the town passed to the Angevins, the Spanish and then to the Genoese family of the Imperiali, until it was annexed to the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.<\/p>\n The beating heart of Orvieto's spirituality is the Cathedral Basilica of Maria SS. Assunta<\/strong><\/a>, also known as \"Little St. Peter's,\" because of its majestic layout and dome covered with polychrome tiles. The interior is a triumph of stucco, marble and Baroque statues. Not to be missed is the striking Crypt of the Mummies, where the embalmed brethren rest, dressed in ceremonial robes.<\/p>\nMonuments and architecture<\/h4>\n