What happens when the turquoise waters of a small river flow into the sea? Generally a beautiful natural panorama is created, but there is at least one case in which what is born is a true oasis unique in the world, a wonder that leaves everyone breathless.
Chidro Beach, a natural paradise
Il Salento It is a land of a thousand surprises, where charming landscapes and an ancient tradition of art, culture and tasty delicacies come together. Always among tourists' favorite destinations for summer vacations, it has a long series of wonderful beaches that have become famous throughout the world and have nothing to envy of some exotic paradises; It is no coincidence that some of these places take their name from the Maldives of Salento. It is on the stretch of the Apulian coast that overlooks the Ionian Sea where nature has given life to incredible beauty, mostly unknown to those who come from outside (and which therefore still maintains its charm intact).
We are talking about playa chidro, which takes its name from the river of the same name from which it originates. This short waterway begins in the heart of the region, approximately halfway between Taranto and Lecce: for most of its length it runs underground in an environment of immense historical and naturalistic value. Not only is it the habitat of numerous species of fish, some of which are very rare, but it is also the place where beautiful marble sarcophagi dating back to Roman times were discovered. It is a true pearl for those who love them. scuba diving, because in its 13 km excavated in the depths of the earth it offers impressive views.
But it is when emerging into the sunlight that the river achieves something extraordinary. The last 500 meters of its route take place on the surface, in a Brief but suggestive getaway to the sea.. And it is here where a charming beach is born, in a natural environment of thick reeds, lush vegetation and very white sand. The cold and crystalline waters of the Chidro mix with the much warmer waters of the Ionian and create a small area where the temperature is perfect to find the right soft drink during the scorching summer days.
The Chidro River, between history and legend
Il fiume chidro, although very short in its extension above the ground, is surrounded by a charming panorama. The Natural Reserve that originates at its mouth includes the beautiful beach where adults and children come to play in the cool waters and enjoy a dreamlike landscape. But not everyone knows that this wonderful place hides an ancient legend. It is said that Saint Peter the Apostle, on the sea voyage that would take him to Rome, stopped in Apulia to supply his ship with water. It seems that it is precisely the source of the Chidro River that he saw the first baptisms performed by the saint.
But the legend has several variations: one of them says that Saint Peter He crossed the river crying, and his tears immediately turned into shells. For this reason, the ancient inhabitants of this area used to collect shells and preserve them, to pay tribute to the Apostle and preserve his petrified tears. Another version, however, says that Saint Peter arrived at this place and made the sign of the cross in front of him. a statue representing Zeus, which shattered into a thousand pieces at his gesture.
