The Jonian coast is characterized by wide beaches and a limpid water sloping gently into deepness. Taranto, also known as "the city of two seas", is the gem of this coast, with its gulf rich in history and its well-renowned cuisine.
In Taranto Murge there are deep ravines resulting from the action of ancient rivers as well as several karstic caves where a flourishing rock-settlement civilization rose since prehistory. Often a haven for shepherds and peasants, these same caves were used in Middle Ages as a place of worship by Basilian monks.
Taranto hills are characterized by olive trees and vineyards, which produce excellent DOC wine, such as Aleatico di Puglia, Lizzano and Primitivo di Manduria.