Taranta is much more than a dance: it is a living, breathing expression of the Salento soul, born of ancient rituals and transformed today into a symbol of identity, pride and cultural rebirth. But what is the true origin of this fascinating phenomenon? How has it survived over the centuries to become an irresistible draw for thousands of people each year?

Origins: Between Myth, Care and Spirituality.

The roots of Taranta lie in an interweaving of legend, folk medicine and deep spirituality. According to tradition, it all stems from the bite of the tarantula – a spider that, in the hot summer months, would mainly affect women. This bite would trigger a physical and psychological crisis known as tarantism. The ritual involved the affected person, the tarantata, being surrounded by tambourine, violin and accordion players. Then began a frenzied and liberating dance, almost a trance, which could last for hours or days. Only then could the real or symbolic “poison” be expelled. But this ritual was not only healing: it was also a form of silent rebellion against social oppression, an alternative language for expressing pain, repressed desires and the need for freedom.

The Music of Taranta: The Heart of Salento

From the ritual dimension, the Taranta has evolved into a popular musical expression: the Pizzica. Rhythmic, hypnotic, overwhelming, the pizzica has over time become not only music of healing, but also a dance of celebration, and cultural pride. The instruments that give voice to the pizzica are those of tradition:

• The Salento tambourine, the beating heart of the rhythm,
• The violin and accordion, which weave living, vibrant melodies,
• The voice, often female, which sings stories of passion, pain, land and belonging.

Every sound is memory, every step is root.

Rebirth: From Shadows to the Night of the Taranta

For a long time, Taranta remained silent, considered a legacy of the past. But since the 1990s, thanks to the efforts of musicians, scholars and enthusiasts, it has experienced an extraordinary rebirth. Today, its heart beats during La Notte della Taranta, the festival that enlivens Melpignano every summer and attracts spectators from all over the world. An event that combines international artists and folk tradition in a show charged with energy, emotion and Salento pride. The modern Taranta preserves the soul of the past: it is still rhythm that heals, dance that unites, a collective ritual that speaks to us of the deep bond between man, earth and spirit.

Taranta Today: One Music, A Thousand Meanings.

Today Taranta is much more than music: it is a symbol. It speaks of the strength of the South, the value of roots, the desire to tell one’s story and stay true to one’s culture. It is heard in the squares, taught in schools, danced at festivals and festivals. It has become a shared heritage, a universal language, a reason for belonging and pride for those who live or love Salento.

Experience Magic Live

Do you really want to understand what Taranta is? Come and experience it in the heart of Salento.

At our estate, during summer evenings, the pizzica comes to life under the stars. Among tambourines that beat, songs that excite and dances that drag, you can savor the true soul of this tradition. A glass of wine, a typical dinner and the music that enters you: it’s an experience you won’t forget.