Fishing boat and Aragonese Castle (photo Massimo Todaro)
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed with the aim of promoting socio-economic regeneration starting from the sea, the traditional economic resource of the territory. The agreement aims at interventions for the development of environmental sustainability and the so-called “blue economy”. This initiative was promoted by the municipal administration led by mayor Rinaldo Melucci, aimed at reinvigorating the production and socio-cultural supply chain linked to the maritime sector. Furthermore, the aim is to enhance the local realities of the sector and attract structural investments.
The municipal council, following the directives of the Single Programming Document (DUP) 2024-2026, which includes the development and enhancement of tourism, has selected the Taranto social promotion association “Officine Maremosso” to achieve these objectives. This organization is dedicated to the conservation and dissemination of traditional sailing seafaring, with particular attention to wooden carpentry and nautical and naval construction.
“Officine Maremosso” will collaborate with the municipal body to promote the territory through activities such as educational and institutional cruises, as well as the dissemination of Taranto’s seafaring culture on a global level. The protocol also aims to preserve the culture and techniques of the city’s ancient maritime professions, such as shipwrights, caulkers and sea carpenters, as well as promoting sailing culture and training on traditional sailing vessels.
Deputy Mayor Gianni Azzaro, proponent of the resolution approved by the Council, stated that the objective of the Protocol is to enhance the seafaring traditions of Taranto, making the sea resource accessible to all and valorising ancient crafts for a future that respects the cultural roots of the city .
