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Otranto is about to be transformed into a vibrant stage of celebrations, combining the solemn memory of the Otranto Heroes and Martyrs of 1480 with an explosion of cultural and musical events. A unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the city's history and traditions, offering residents and visitors unforgettable moments of excitement and culture.
The martyrs of Otranto numbered precisely 813.
As every year, from August 13 to 15, the City of Otranto celebrates the Holy Martyrs, patrons of the City and the Archdiocese.
The Martyrs of Otranto are a group of 813 inhabitants of the city of Otranto who, in 1480, suffered martyrdom at the hands of Ottoman troops led by Sultan Mohammed II. After a two-week siege, Ottoman forces took the city and offered salvation to the Otrantines in exchange for their conversion to Islam. Faced with refusal to abjure the Christian faith, the captured men were brutally murdered on Aug. 14 on a hill now known as Minerva's Hill. The martyrs, canonized by Pope Francis in 2013, are celebrated today as symbols of faith and courage, and their memory is enshrined in Otranto Cathedral, where their remains are preserved.
A Civil Commemoration in honor of Otranto's Heroes and Martyrs will be held on August 13 at 8 p.m. at the Piazzale degli Eroi. The event will begin with the Mayor's greeting and continue with a commemorative address by Prof. Manuela De Giorgi, professor of Medieval Art History at the University of Salento.
Otranto in Music
The day will be enriched by the performance of the award-winning Gran Concerto Band "Città di Conversano" G. Piantoni, conducted and concerted by Maestro Susanna Pescetti. The musical events will be:
August 14 will be the turn of the Grand Concert Band "City of Fisciano," directed and concerted by Cav. Paolo Addesso. The day will be enlivened by the following events:
During the morning, the "Around the City" initiative will bring music to Otranto's neighborhoods and villages, creating a festive atmosphere throughout the municipality.
After midnight, at about 01:00 a.m., the "Lights on the City" fireworks show will light up the sky above the Otranto Harbor dock. The show will be curated by the award-winning firm L'Artificiosa dei fratelli Di Candia from Sassano (Salerno). Please note that the lighting of the fireworks is subject to weather conditions.
On August 15, at 9:30 p.m., the square in Otranto will come alive with the Popular Music Concert by Enza Pagliara and Dario Muci, accompanied by Gianluca Longo, Giorgio Distante, Giuseppe Anglano, Matteo Resta and Francesco De Donatis. A not-to-be-missed event for lovers of traditional Salento music.
Otranto is preparing to live days of intense participation and celebration, combining historical memory and moments of celebration, including music and shows that will involve the whole community. Don't miss the opportunity to fully experience these extraordinary days of celebration and culture in the heart of Salento!
Book now one of our exclusive vacation homes or luxury villas in Otranto, immersed in the beauty of Salento, to enjoy every moment of the celebrations in total relaxation and comfort. Contact us today to secure your ideal abode and make your stay in this city rich in history and traditions unforgettable.
