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This map of the Bay of Taranto, located on the southern coast of Italy, shows its strategic significance to Mediterranean maritime activities. The map offers a detailed representation of the bay, including key landmarks such as the fortified town of Taranto, the islands of St. George and Piscvo, and several passes and points critical for navigation.  

Taranto, located on the coast of southern Italy in the region of Apulia, played a significant role in Mediterranean trade and geopolitics during the 18th century. The city's natural harbor, sheltered by the Mar Grande (Great Sea) and Mar Piccolo (Little Sea), had been of strategic importance since ancient times. By the 18th century, this importance persisted, as control of the Bay of Taranto meant control over naval movements between the Eastern and Western Mediterranean.

The Kingdom of Naples, which ruled Taranto during this period, was often caught in the geopolitical struggles between major European powers such as Spain, France, and Austria. In the early part of the 18th century, the War of Spanish Succession (1701-1714) led to the transfer of the Kingdom of Naples, including Taranto, to Austrian control. However, in 1734, during the War of the Polish Succession, the Spanish Bourbons regained control of Naples and Sicily under King Charles III, further highlighting the city’s strategic value. 

Throughout the 18th century, control of Taranto was crucial to the Bourbon rulers of Naples, as it helped maintain their influence in the central Mediterranean. The city was a key point in the broader contest for control over southern Italy and the surrounding seas. European powers understood that securing Taranto would give them significant leverage over Mediterranean shipping and naval activities, particularly during periods of conflict like the War of Austrian Succession (1740-1748) and the Seven Years' War (1756-1763), both of which saw increased naval activity in the region.

Taranto's fortified harbor also served as a strategic outpost during these wars, as the Bourbon rulers relied on the port to secure their hold on southern Italy. The detailed fortifications on Bellin’s map indicate the significant military investments made by the Kingdom of Naples to protect this valuable maritime asset from both land and sea threats.