The rivers of Salènto, like the Idro, are streams that - if left to their own devices - do not flow into the sea, but into a karstic and depressed area. So, the coasts of Salènto have been marshes for many centuries. This is true on both the Adriatic side - with its steep cliffs overlooking the sea - and on the Ionian side, where you are, characterized by low sandy beaches interrupted by areas of Mediterranean scrub and natural undulations. These are the Sèrre Salentine, a system of limestone ridges that reach a maximum height of 200 meters. In the interior, the Serre have a certain slope and are dotted with surface rocks: cultivation was not possible there. And, of course, not in the marshes along the coasts.

The Romans, and perhaps even before them, the Messapians, tried to drain these lands. However, after the fall of the Western Roman Empire, the marshes reclaimed the coasts. Only many centuries later, the Kingdom of Italy, the fascist regime, and in recent years, the development of mass tourism, have regimented this complex and rebellious landscape to some extent but have also transformed and compromised it.

Right here in Tórre Sàn Giovànni, the Ugènto Regional Natural Park begins. For nine kilometers, up to Lido Marini, it protects a still wonderful coastline that is home to rare animals such as the European pond turtle or the northern pintail, a migratory duck. In the park, you will find the largest expanse of Mediterranean scrubland in Salènto, which is resisting the indiscriminate exploitation of the territory.