Salento, once the territory of the Byzantine empire, retains evidence, to this day of its long domination. This is seen in the numerous crypts with their wonderful frescos, used for Greek ceremonies throughout the territory. The crypts, were also used for cultural activities such as fairs and pilgrimages, as well as places to meet during the numerous rites which seemed to punctuate the daily rhythms and seasons of Salentine life. It is difficult to describe each of the numerous crypts to see, so we mention here, only a few of the most important. Perhaps the most significant, is that of St Cristina of Carpignano, which contains sacred wall paintings believed to be from the Theophilus school and which have been dated around 959 A.D. and which depict Christ enthroned in his annunciation. The importance of this pictorial evidence also lies in the fact that, each fresco is signed by its painter. Otranto, a classical Byzantine city, is awash with effects from the Norman conquests around the 11th century and houses interesting crypts such as Saint Nicola, Saint Angelo and Saint John, built near the small basilica of St Peter at the heart of the old city. The basilica itself also houses well-preserved paintings from the 10th and 11th centuries. Near Otranto, at the small town of Giurdignano, important historical evidence can be found in the crypt of Salvatore, a basilical building. Similarly, at Saint Stephen, which is excavated from the local rocks with frescoes dating from the 11th – 14th centuries. In the crypt of St. Maria, frescos were removed, renovated and placed in the local museum. Whilst this has guaranteed the conservation of the frescos, it has ensured the decline and decay of the crypt, their original site. The crypts in Salento are wonderful sites to visit, not only for those historians amongst us, but also for the regular tourist, and are endowed with a continuing feeling and sense of awe and wonder and tranquillity.