The town was founded in the 9th century around a Benedictine abbey, and it grew considerably following the arrival of
inhabitants from Paestum, fleeing from Saracen incursions. It was pillaged by Pisa in 1268, resulting in an expansion
of its defenses, with steep narrow roads, massive fortified walls and a series of watch towers. The town was destroyed
by a tsunami in 1343, and it was continually attacked by Ottoman pirates in the 15th century. By the 18th century, it
was a prosperous port and trading hub, but it’s importance began to decline after the Unification of Italy, reducing it
to little more than a humble fishing village.