Some call Galatina, a town in the province of Lecce, “the navel of Salento” because of its equidistant location (20 km) from both the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. The name Galatina means “the beautiful Athena.”

Beyond its beautiful churches, which are fine examples of local Baroque architecture, it’s worth visiting during the “Feast of Saints Peter and Paul” (June 28–29) to experience the region’s unique dance—the Pizzica (or Tarantella). This traditional dance carries many legends, charms, secrets, and healing rituals. It is said to release one from the bite of a spider, but above all, it is a vibrant urban celebration full of tradition, mystical beliefs, and fascinating, unusual ceremonies.