Cannae

Cannae is an archaeological site near Barletta with ruins spanning multiple periods, scattered across a hilltop alongside the Ofanto River. The remains include Roman houses, fortification walls, and medieval structures preserved within the same area.

The site was the location of one of antiquity's most significant battles, when the Carthaginian commander Hannibal defeated Roman legions in 216 BC. This victory became famous throughout the ancient world and changed military strategy.

The remains reflect multiple periods of settlement, from Roman houses to medieval churches, showing how different peoples inhabited this place over centuries. Walking through the site reveals how the landscape was shaped and reshaped by successive communities.

The site is accessible via the provincial road SP142 from Barletta and features an on-site museum with information about its history. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the terrain is uneven and partially covered with vegetation.

The site preserves the original terrain features that influenced the battle itself, allowing visitors to understand the landscape that Hannibal used to his advantage. The natural slopes and river course remain visible today and help explain how the military maneuvers unfolded.

Location: Barletta

Elevation above the sea: 54 m

GPS coordinates: 41.29639,16.15167

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:59