Gallipoli is a town of approximately 21.000 in that lies in Puglia, in the province of Lecce. Located on the coast of the Salento peninsula, Gallipoli overlooks the Ionian Sea, in an area that during the summer season is frequent tourists destination. The city's economy is mainly based on tourism and on fishing. Gallipoli's origins are ancient, so much so that some historians the date back to prehistory. Always been the scene of several wars for the conquest of its port, Gallipoli belonged to several noble families who ruled southern Italy in the past centuries. Patrons of Gallipoli are Saints Agata and Sebastiano, that are solemnly celebrated the 20 January each year.
The town of Gallipoli is divided into two parts: the Borgo, that represents the modern city, with large buildings and shopping malls; the Old Town, the most ancient and monumental of Gallipoli, rich in monuments and historical buildings. Among the artistic beauties of the town include: The Castello Angioino, considered one of the most beautiful and impressive of Apulia, stands on the ruins of a Byzantine fortification and still welcomes visitors at the entrance to the old town; the Cathedral of Saint Agatha, a beautiful 17th-century building, that still preserves the original Renaissance and Baroque structures; the Greek Fountain, built in the 16th century over the remains of a Roman origin, has long been believed to be the oldest in Italy; Palazzo Tafuri, built in the 17th century in the Baroque leccese, located in the so-called "balcony", one of the most panoramic views of the whole city.
