Taranto is the only known Spartan colony, having been founded in approximately 706 BC as Partheniae. Partheniae’s literal translation is “sons of virgins,” but in colloquial terms this would either be a bastard or a child from wedlock. The modern city of Taranto was built upon the ruins of the Greek city, and went from the Greeks, to the Romans, to Arabs, to Normans, and finally to Italians.
On this day February 25th, in 1497, Taranto is reconquered by Italian troops from the French. During the Italian wars (1494-1559), which Charles VIII of France had led, much of Italy had been conquered from the Italians during the reign of Alfonso II. From a nationalist’s standpoint, having reconquered territory would have been imperative to his pride; thus, this not only was pragmatic due to Taranto’s location, but improved morale as well.
Taranto is located in Southern Italy and is a port city, for many years helping Italy’s trade and commercial success. It was also used as a naval base. A lot of military equipment was made, including battleships, in factories surrounding the area. Unfortunately in 1991, Taranto was deemed environmentally hazardous because of the poison gasses released from the many factories in the area.