Otranto is a picturesque coastal town and port in the province of Lecce, Apulia, Italy. True to its Greek origin, it boasts a beautiful harbour and stunning Mediterranean views. Its colourful past includes periods of Byzantine rule, sackings by the Ottomans and the Napoleonic wars. Moreover, during World War I, an Italian-French-British Fleet established the Otranto Barrage to control the Austrian-Hungarian fleet while during World War II, a British fleet attacked the waters around Otranto as a diversionary manoeuvre. Of particular note are the "Martyrs of Otranto" - 800 citizens whose refusal to convert to Islam resulted in their execution - who were canonized by Pope Francis in 2013. Not to be missed is Faro della Palascìa, the lighthouse located 5 kilometres (3miles) southeast of Otranto that marks the most easterly point of the Italian mainland. With its unusual history, spectacular landscape and nearby attractions, Otranto is a fantastic spot for those seeking adventure and serenity.