Puglia

Puglia is an Italian region located in the southern part of Italy, bordered by the Adriatic Sea on the east coast  and the Ionian Sea on the west coast. Puglia is known as one of the richest archaeological regions in Italy and has three UNESCO world heritage sites: Castel del Monte, Alberobello and the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo.

It is also known for having the longest  stunning coastline, full of beaches,  bays, with ancient stone villages overlooking the sea surrounded by olive grooves and wild nature. 

Of all the stunning places to visit I can mention only one, so not to make this article never ending, but the other destinations to visit in Puglia are surely not less interesting or beautiful.

Alberobello is a small town in Puglia that is unique for the architecture of its  homes, the TRULLI. Alberobello became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996 and it is a must- see if you travel to Puglia because it is one of a kind.

Trulli are considered a historic site because of their history dating back to the 14h century. There are 1.500 Trulli homes left from when people began to settle in Alberobello around a thousand years ago, and the construction of this particular architecture most likely began at that time. 

The shape and construction probably was inspired by the original Greek settlers between the 8th and 5th century B.C. since both Greek funeral chambers and the Trulli homes have domed roofs, with whitewashed walls and corbelled roofs and many have ”pinnacoli” on top.

The Trulli were built in a historical period in which permanent buildings were highly taxed so they represented an inexpensive solution, using local stone, for housing.

In 1644 many Trulli where destroyed following an inspection sent by the King of Naples, but still their building  continued until the early 20th century and stopped only when labour cost began to rise and it was not convenient anymore. Even if it has become a tourist attraction, Alberobello will treat you to a one of a kind experience: the sight of the white Trulli against the blue sky, the cobbled narrow roads, and the atmosphere is really enchanting.