Taranto is a town in the south of Italy, located on the Gulf of Taranto in the Ionian Sea. It is the capital of the province of Taranto and the third-largest city in the region of Apulia. The town has a long and rich history, stretching back to the 8th century BCE when it was founded by the ancient Greeks. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Saracens, and Angevins. Today, Taranto is a bustling port city and an important industrial center, with a population of over 180,000.
The earliest known inhabitants of Taranto were the Messapii, an ancient Italic people. The city was founded by the ancient Greeks around 706 BCE, and it quickly became an important trading port. It was conquered by the Romans in 272 BCE, when it became known as Tarentum. During the Roman period, Taranto was a prosperous city, known for its fine pottery, textiles, and wine.
In the 5th century CE, Taranto was conquered by the Ostrogoths, and it was later taken by the Byzantines. In the 11th century, the Normans took control of the city, and it was later ruled by the Saracens and the Angevins. During the Angevin period, Taranto became a major center of commerce, and it was also an important cultural center.
In the 16th century, Taranto was conquered by the Spanish, who built a large fortress to protect the city. This fortress still stands today, and it is a popular tourist attraction. In the 19th century, the city was taken by the French, and it was later annexed by the Kingdom of Italy in 1860.
Taranto has a long and fascinating history, and it is still an important port city today. It is home to a large naval base, and it is also an important industrial center. The city is home to some of the best beaches in the region, and it is also a popular destination for tourists. Taranto is a great place to explore the history and culture of Italy, and it is sure to be a memorable destination for any traveler.