Holiday apartment in Palmariggi: Between Mediterranean scrub, history and Montevergine

Palmariggi combines the landscape of the Serra di Montevergine with impressive evidence of history, faith and local culture. In the historic centre, at the religious sites, in the Museo della conchiglia e del corallo and on the nearby beaches, the diversity of the town becomes apparent.

Palmariggi is situated on the Serra di Montevergine between pine forests and Mediterranean scrub.

Historic centre and exceptional sights

The historic centre of Palmariggi is grouped around the main square and includes the 18th-century Chiesa Matrice, dedicated to Saint Luke. The town's history also includes the former Aragonese fortress. It had four towers as well as a moat with a drawbridge. The Museo della conchiglia e del corallo in Palmariggi offers a completely different perspective on special objects, housing more than 2,000 specimens from around the world.

One focal point is the area around the Santuario di Maria Santissima di Montevergine. The crypt originally served as a refuge and dwelling for coenobites. It houses an ancient 16th-century fresco depicting the Virgin Mary. Next to the sanctuary of the same name on the Serra di Palmariggi stands the Montevergine menhir. The hill of the Santuario di Montevergine is characterised by an extensive pine forest with picnic areas.

Opposite the Santuario della Madonna di Montevergine, a 35-metre-high pedestal supports a 5-metre-high statue of the Madonna. On 19 March, Palmariggi celebrates the tradition of the Tavole di San Giuseppe with festive banquets in honour of Saint Joseph. From 11 October to 13 October 2024, Lu Paniri te e Site was also held in its 48th edition.

Castles, archaeological site and nearby beaches

The area around Palmariggi is home to the Circolo Ippico Tumara archaeological site, Castello di Otranto as a castle, Palazzo Baronale as a castle and Villa Starace as a palace. The range of possible discoveries thus extends from archaeological traces to historic buildings.

The beaches near Palmariggi include Spiaggia degli Scaloni, Spiaggia della Riviera degli Haethei, Spiaggia di Porto Craulo o La Punta and Spiaggia Alimini.

Palmariggi between history, Montevergine and the coast

For a stay focused on history, the main attractions are in the town centre with the Chiesa Matrice, former fortress and museum. Montevergine combines religious landmarks, a menhir, a statue of the Madonna and pine forest; the nearby beaches add their own coastal highlight.

More places in the region: Sanarica, Monteroni Di Lecce, Bagnolo Del Salento, Marina Di Pescoluse, Racale, Otranto, Ruffano and Veglie.

More about the region: Lecce.