Torre Colimena, an enchanting coastal town located in the heart of Salento. This picturesque village overlooking the Ionian Sea is a true hidden gem, still uncontaminated by mass tourism, which knows how to make its way into the heart of those who visit it precisely for its authentic beauty. Nature lovers will find an earthly paradise in Torre Colimena! In this article we will discover the sea, history, nature and restaurants to eat in!
History
The town of Torre Colimenaoriginated around the majestic tower of the same name, located along the coastal route of the town. This historic tower was a connection point between the Tower of San Pietro in Bevagna, in the municipality of San Pietro in Bevagna, to the west, and Torre Castiglione, in the municipality of Porto Cesareo, to the east.
Torre Colimena is part of a system of coastal towers commissioned by Emperor Charles V, king of Spain, after the invasion of Otranto by the Turks in 1480. These towers are were built to protect the Salento peninsula from frequent attacks by the Turks.
It is known that Charles V pronounced the famous phrase “In my kingdom the sun never sets” referring to the new Spanish conquests in America after 1492 in the west and in Salento, which it was the easternmost territory of the kingdom of Spain at the time, to the east.
The tower of Torre Colimena was commissioned by Camillo Chiarello and completed around 1568, at the request of the viceroy of Naples, Pedro Afán de Ribera.
An important historical episode linked to the small town of Torre Colimena dates back to 1547, when around 100 Turkish pirates disembarked from 5 ships in the quiet and sandy port of Torre Colimena. After landing, they carried out a raid inland, plundering the crops of the surrounding farms in San Pancrazio and Avetrana. These pirates were led by Khria, a local individual who converted to Islam.
How is the sea in Torre Colimena?
The sea at Torre Colimena is simply spectacular. The waters are crystal clear, transparent and intensely blue, making it one of the most fascinating stretches of coast in Puglia. The beaches, with their fine, golden sand, extend for kilometers along the coast, offering ample space to relax, sunbathe or take a refreshing swim.
Here, the idyllic and unspoiled landscape creates a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. The calm waters make it particularly suitable for families with children, but also for lovers of water activities, such as swimming, snorkeling and diving .
Where is the beach in Torre Colimena?
The beach of Torre Colimena is located on < b>Ionian coast of Salento, in the province of Taranto. It extends along the coast road that connects San Pietro in Bevagna to Punta Prosciutto, and is characterized by a stretch of flat but rugged cliffs and a stretch of light sand and crystal clear sea.
Lidi Torre Colimena Puglia
There is no lido in Torre Colimena as the area is wild and almost pristine. However, on the nearby beaches you can find numerous beach establishments, such as:
- Togo Bay a Punta Prosciutto;
- Samanà Beach a Punta Prosciutto;
- Lido Teranga Bay a Punta Prosciutto.
Seas and winds Torre Colimena
If you want to see the sea of Torre Colimena we recommend you go when The north wind blows to find it in ideal conditions. With the sirocco, however, it is agitated.
Salina di Torre Colimena Puglia
The Salina dei Monaci is a small paradise located near Torre Colimena, in the municipality of Manduria. This enchanting place is surrounded by two unique ecosystems: the lush vegetation of the Mediterranean scrub and the imposing mountains. sand dunes that separate it from the sea. Thanks to this particular conformation, the area attracts numerous migratory birds, making it a true paradise for birdwatchers. Among the most fascinating species to observe are pink flamingos, known not only for their beauty but also for being very photogenic.
The salt pans in Torre Colimena, recognized as a Nature Reserve since 2010, they are easily reachable via the SP122 provincial road. It is also included in the official list of Italian protected areas and covers an area of approximately 250,000 square metres. Its name derives from the Benedictine monks of Aversa who, in the past, took care of its management until 1404.
The main feature of this oasis is represented by a small salt lake which fills up during high tide thanks to a canal that connects it to the sea. In the past, this lake was used for sea salt extraction and harvesting, but was later abandoned. After a partial recovery of the area after the Second World War, the construction of the SP122 road caused damage to the environment, separating the salt pans from the beach. However, in 2007 the road was removed to allow the vegetation to regenerate. Thus, the Mediterranean scrub and the sand brought by the wind have gradually recolonized the space previously occupied by the concrete.
When are there flamingos in Torre Colimena?
The pink flamingos are present in Torre Colimena during the spring months, usually from March. During this period, many species of migratory birds, including flamingos, choose the area of Torre Colimena Salina Nature Reserve as a resting place during their journey, an incredible spectacle of nature!
Torre Colimena paese
The town of Torre Colimena is very small, with few roads and few services. If you are looking for a placewild and not very contaminated then it could be the ideal solution.
Torre Colimena restaurant
There aren’t many restaurants in Torre Colimena, but here are some tips to appreciate Salento cuisine.
- Angolo 37 Restaurant;
- G.Cloud;
- Molo 62;
- Blue Wave Aperitif.
