Via Niccolo Tommaso d'Aquino (Thomas Aquinas Street), Taranto

Thomas Aquinas Street is one of the main streets of Taranto, offering a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and leisurely strolls. Stretching from the Swing Bridge, it is lined with boutiques, cafés, and local businesses. Dedicated to Thomas Aquinas, a historian and former mayor of Taranto in the early 18th century, the street holds historical and cultural significance. In his works, including Deliciae Tarentinae, Aquinas praised the artisans and beauty of the city, leaving a lasting mark on Taranto’s legacy. Today, the street maintains its elegance and charm, providing a well-maintained, safe, and pedestrian-friendly environment.

A walk down Aquinas Street reveals a lively and modern shopping scene, making it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. With historic shops like Casa del Libro and Dragone Perfumery, the street retains a touch of its old-world elegance, though many of the once-luxurious storefronts have given way to modern franchises. Nevertheless, Taranto’s residents still flock here for their shopping needs, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere away from the city's busier traffic. The numerous cafés and bakeries along the way provide an opportunity to savor local specialties, such as coffee and traditional croissants, while people-watching or taking a break from exploring.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Aquinas Street was a hub of sophisticated storefronts and stylish displays, each competing to showcase the finest craftsmanship and luxury goods. According to the locals, who has witnessed the street’s evolution since the 1930s, the area once exuded an air of exclusivity and refinement. Though the rise of global franchises has changed its landscape, the spirit of Aquinas Street endures, blending its historic charm with modern conveniences. Whether for shopping, an evening aperitif, or simply a leisurely walk, this iconic street remains one of Taranto’s most distinctive destinations.