Oria is a charming town with a population of around 15,000, located in the Brindisi province of Puglia. It is one of the key Messapian cities, situated approximately 7.4 miles from Manduria, an ancient town notable for its still-intact Messapian walls. Manduria is also famous for producing Primitivo di Manduria wine, made from the same grape variety known in America as Zinfandel.
The Messapians once inhabited the Salento region during classical antiquity. To learn more about their history and the area’s archaeological significance, you can visit the archaeology museum in Oria. The museum operates from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and is available for visits by appointment on Sundays and holidays. It is located in the historic center of Oria, housed in the 18th-century Baroque Palazzo Martini.
Oria is perched on a hill, which is somewhat unusual for the generally flat Salento area. At the highest point, you’ll find a castle that dates back to medieval times. Every year in August, the town hosts a fantastic medieval festival.
The town also features one of the oldest Jewish quarters in Europe.
Oria is known for its variety of nuts and dried fruits. A local resident introduced me to a quaint shop that offered an array of healthy snacks.
You can also enjoy excellent cuisine at the many restaurants in the area. Our friend took us to Ristorante Vecchia Oria. Since it was quite early for a typical Pugliese dinner—around 9 PM, when it’s cool enough—the owner adjusted the menu pictures before coming to our table to discuss our food preferences. Having had a substantial lunch, we opted for a range of appetizers to share among the four of us.
I was surprised to come across several reviews online expressing dissatisfaction with the food and indicating that the wait staff didn’t treat tourists well. My advice is to engage with your waiter and show genuine interest in the local dishes. Don’t limit your palate to familiar foods; instead, embrace the local cuisine. Just remember, it’s part of the experience—even if a fish arrives with its head still attached or you see squid tentacles; it’s all part of the culinary culture. Rest assured, it won’t harm you.
If you’re in the vicinity of Oria, it’s definitely worth a visit. Climbing to the castle built in 1227 by Emperor Frederick II of Hohenstaufen offers fantastic views. While you may only be able to explore the exterior, unless a special event is taking place, the gardens provide a lovely spot to relax, and the sunsets from the castle hill are spectacular during the tourist season.
In August, don’t miss the Corteo storico di Federico II – Torneo dei Rioni.
“During the second half of August, Oria hosts one of Italy’s finest medieval pageants, recreating the splendor of its glorious past through the historical Parade of Frederick II and the Palio dei Rioni (Tournament of the Four Districts). This event dates back to 1225 when Frederick II sought to entertain the loyal residents of Oria while awaiting his wedding to Isabella of Brienne, which took place in the Brindisi Cathedral that November. This historical celebration remains the most significant recreation of Frederick II’s reign in Italy today.” ~ Source: Oria
Map of Oria
Travel Notes for a Visit to Oria, Italy
When to Go: Spring or Fall is ideal, as summers can be quite hot. Check Lecce climate charts for more information.
Region: Puglia Map
Duration: 1-2 days, or consider it as a short day trip from Manduria.
Transportation: The train station is located to the north of the town along the Taranto-Brindisi line.
Parking: There are parking lots available outside the old town, some of which are close to the train station.
Recommended Accommodation: B&B Messapia
Local Wines: Salice Salentino, Primitivo
From Oria, you can continue on to Manduria and visit the Orio Archaeological Museum.
More Stories and Places in the Puglia Region of Italy
Castel del Monte
Lecce: Baroque in Puglia
Radical Restoration of a Masseria in Puglia
To Russia With Love: Romantic Vico
Puglia at Speed: A Fast Travelogue
Puglia to the Greek Islands
Celebrating Citrus in the Gargano
Pathologically Pugliese: The Evolution of Pagghiare
