Discover the treasures of Puglia – culture, history and gastronomy in abundance
Staying at our villa in Ostuni is not only a soothing escape into nature, but also a perfect base from which to discover Puglia's rich heritage. The region is steeped in history, with influences from the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Normans – and you can feel it everywhere.
Ostuni, the "White City", is located on a hill and enchants with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses and impressive cathedral in Gothic-Romanesque style. Get lost in the historic center, visit local craft shops or enjoy an aperitivo on one of the cozy squares.
A short distance away is the world-famous Alberobello, known for its unique trulli – cone-shaped limestone houses that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A walk through this fairytale city is a step back in time.
Monopoli offers a brilliant mix of fishing culture, baroque churches and a lively historic centre by the sea. Stroll along the old city walls, taste fresh seafood in a local restaurant or discover the small beaches hidden between the rocks.
One of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Locorotondo is famous for its white wine and concentric streets. The architecture is elegant and serene, and the view over the Valle d'Itria is breathtaking.
In Brindisi, once an important port city of the Roman Empire, ends the famous Via Appia, the ancient road that connected Rome with southern Italy. Here you can still feel the echo of classical antiquity, especially at the Roman columns at the end of the old road.
Lecce, also known as the "Florence of the South", is a gem of Baroque architecture. The city is rich in churches, monasteries and palaces with ornate façades in the characteristic soft, gold-colored pietra leccese. Don't forget to taste a pasticciotto – a local pastry that's as famous as the city itself.
And a little further north you will find Bari, the bustling capital of the region. The Old Town, Bari Vecchia, is a lively maze of alleyways, where grannies still roll fresh orecchiette pasta on the streets, and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas watches over the city's cultural heritage.
Whether you're interested in ancient Greek settlements, Roman history, medieval architecture, or the culinary riches of southern Italy – you'll find it all within easy reach in this region.
