We were lucky to find this beautiful modern hotel just a short walk from the historic center of Otranto. Our room had a king-size bed and doors opening onto a secret courtyard shared by just two other rooms, surrounded by stone walls, and appointed with lounge chairs and huge urns.
The Corte has many courtyards and terraces, and staff were happy to arrange a light lunch for the two of us on the second floor terrace overlooking the sea. In the other direction is Minerva's hill, a pretty bucolic sight. The hotel itself is not on the beach, but a free beach is a short walk away, on the far side of the historic center. There is both sand and a set of grand steps to sun oneself on, and the Adriatic Sea is gorgeous.
The history within the Corte consists of displays of maritime artifacts. In particular we were impressed by the meerschaum pipe collection, located in the hallway outside the hotel restaurant. Mosaic designs in the floors and beautiful sea-related displays encountered around corners as we walked the stairs appealed as well.
Breakfasts and our special lunch at the hotel were deliciously prepared, but we wandered into town for our dinners. The bed was comfortable, the shower was fine, there were plenty of towels, and shampoo/shower gel as well as shower caps were provided.
It would help to know a little Italian -- basic phrases at the very least -- as Otranto and the Puglia region is less developed as a tourist center compared to other regions (and we would add this is a major part of its charm). The good news is Italians go the extra mile to communicate even if they don't speak your language.
All in all, we found the Corte to be a great value for the price.