Trulli are cone shaped sectional buildings made with dry stone that are dotted throughout the lands of the Valle d’Itria. You can’t go to Puglia without stopping to visit the Trulli, that represent the essence of this territory and speak of agriculture and love for the land. These are the original examples of rationalist and modular architecture which, given their originality and uniqueness, could not fail to become UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Trulli are dwellings that date back to the prehistoric era, but the oldest surviving remains date back to the seventeenth century: they were the farmers’ homes or the shelters where they kept the tools of their trade. Except for the entrance, there were no openings, and even the beds, especially those of the children, were carved into niches in the stones.
Alberobello, a town in the Bari hinterland, represents the capital of the Trulli in the collective imagination: and in fact, its historic town center, unique in the world, is populated only by these buildings. And when we say “unique in the world” we are not exaggerating: only in Puglia can you lose yourself among the Trulli of the Aia Piccola, UNESCO site and immerse yourself in the white and gray shades of a landscape dotted with these characteristic houses.
The Culinary Tradition of Inland Puglia
The traditional recipes of these areas, apparently humble, are instead a riot of flavors that you will remember long after your tour of Italy.
– Acquasale: apparently a poor dish that looks very similar to panzanella is a respectable appetizer or first course. Stale bread, tomatoes, Extra Virgin Olive oil and the perfume of oregano will delight your palate.
– Orecchiette with turnip greens: they are the must of the territories north of Puglia. Fresh homemade pasta as per tradition, whose delicate flavor is dressed with turnip greens and the savory addition of pork cheek (there are also those who prefer the variant with anchovies, either way it is a triumph of taste)
– Another typical dish of the Valle d’Itria are the bombette, which have become a widespread street food: they are capocollo (pork coldcuts) rolled up and stuffed with canestrato cheese from Puglia, aromatic herbs, salt, pepper, and hot pepper, and so on and so forth!
Tell the truth, your mouth is already watering, and this is just a sample!
The Nearest Beaches for a Summer Dip
From the Valle d’Itria, let’s go to the most beautiful spots to take a dip in the blue waters of Polignano and Ostuni.
Let’s start from the most instagrammed location of all: Lama Monachile in Polignano is a dream-like paradise, a strip of sea that breaks on the coast between two sheer cliffs, a movie set of many movie scenes. It was named after the presence of monk seals in ancient times.
Continuing along the 20km of the Ostuni coast, you will be spoiled for choice: Lido Morelli, a stretch of sand and Mediterranean scrub, is a Regional Nature Reserve; Torre Pozzella is a collection of small beaches surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation, a wild and untouched area, in one word, enchanting.
Even Monopoli, less crowded, offers glimpses of the coast where you can spend hours relaxing, and don’t miss Lido Sabbiadoro!
Puglia, in the territory north of Salento, is the vacation that pleases everyone, those who love the sea and those who prefer walks in the alleyways of its ancient towns, among unique buildings and picturesque spots. What are you waiting for to book your 10-day tour in Puglia with Dragonfly Tours?