The name comes from a vast archaeological area of Manduria, a short distance from its famous beaches, where there are the remains of an ancient city, called Felline.The sites are linked to a legend that still feeds religious rites in honor of St. Peter. It is said that the HolyOne, departed from Antioch in 45 AD for Rome committed to the mission to spread Christianity, was ship wrecked and landed right on one of the beaches near Manduria. Felline people gave him first aid and assistance, welcoming him in the village, even if there was an epidemic plague underway.
St. Peter freed the people and theirking Fellone from leprosy working miraculous healings that led the entire community to convert to the new religion. From Felline then went to Rome where he founded the Catholic Church becoming the first Pope in history.