Latiano, Italian comune
Latiano is a small town in the province of Brindisi in Apulia, surrounded by fields and vineyards. The historic center has narrow, winding streets where the Solise Tower stands as a distinctive landmark, and Palazzo Imperiali, a structure from the 12th century, now serves as the town hall.
The town was founded in the 11th century after Normans granted land to Benedictine monks. Over the centuries, Latiano was ruled by Normans, Swabians, Angevins, and Aragonese before becoming the property of the Francone family in 1551, then later the Imperiali family, who controlled it until the late 1700s.
The name Latiano comes from the Latin word "lato", meaning "side" or "edge", as the town spreads across a wide farming area. Local people keep traditions alive through making pasta reale, an almond sweet especially important during holidays, with regular workshops teaching the craft to younger generations.
The best way to explore Latiano is by walking through the narrow streets of the historic center, where small squares and local cafes are scattered throughout. It is helpful to visit in early morning or late afternoon when the streets are more active and local shops and markets display their goods.
Near Latiano lie the ruins of the ancient city of Scamnum, inhabited from the 8th century BC until around the 6th century AD. Visitors can still see the remains of Roman houses and the fortress ruins of Muro Tenente, offering direct glimpses into the very old history of this region.
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