Ionian Half Marathon

The half marathon of the Ionian Salento

The Ionian Half Marathon is the most anticipated winter running event in Gallipoli: a half marathon covering the official distance of 21.097 km. Certified by FIDAL, the race transforms the center of Gallipoli, in the heart of Salento, into a grand road circuit overlooking the Ionian Sea every late January. The event is organized by A.S.D. Atletica Gallipoli, a historic local sports club, and stands as a key fixture in the Apulian running calendar.

Two races, one celebration of running

The program features two simultaneous events: the Ionian Half Marathon, a competitive race for registered and well-prepared athletes, and the Stracittadina, a 9 km promotional run open to a wider audience of enthusiasts and amateurs. This format allows the competitive spirit of elite runners to coexist with the participatory energy of those who simply want to run through the streets of this Ionian city.

A course along the sea

The route winds through the town center and along the scenic Lungomare Galileo Galilei, hugging the Ionian Sea for long stretches and offering participants stunning views of the Salento coastline. Both the start and finish lines are located near the Lido San Giovanni beach club. To ensure safety, many streets along the route are closed to traffic during the morning, with normal circulation typically resuming around noon.

Gallipoli, the "Beautiful City" of the Ionian

Running in Gallipoli means traversing one of the most fascinating towns in the Province of Lecce and all of Puglia. Its name comes from the Greek Kalè Polis, meaning "beautiful city," and its historic center is built on an island connected to the mainland by a bridge. The Ionian Half Marathon offers participants not just a challenging athletic test, but also the chance to discover a Salento jewel off-season, far from the summer crowds.

A staple of the Apulian running calendar

Now in its many editions, the event attracts hundreds of athletes from across the region and neighboring provinces every year, cementing its status as a classic winter road race in the Municipality of Gallipoli. The organizers at A.S.D. Atletica Gallipoli handle every detail, from registration to logistics, to ensure a day of sport dedicated to running and the beauty of the Ionian territory.