Apulia, a Travel in Time and Beauty
They said that Apulia is a state of mind and actually this is true.
It is a welcoming land that knows how to thrill and win people's hearts.
Its charm is unveiled in the little old towns, in the cities of art, in its unique landscapes, and in its cuisine that smells of tradition. This is a journey that will take you among cobblestone streets called "Chianche", in Mottola, going through the Trulli of Alberobello, the breathtaking views of Polignano a Mare, up to the World Heritage Site of Sassi of Matera in the near region Basilicata. Let's get ready to discover an itinerary that mixes culture, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
Mottola: la Spia dello Ionio
The journey starts in Mottola, nicknamed "The Spy of the Ionian", for its strategic view on the Gulf of Taranto. Its old town charms with a labyrinth of alleys and cobblestone streets, as also do the churches (the oldest is dated back to the XII Century). Unmissable is the visit to the cave churches, like the crypt of St Nicholas, a jewel of Byzantine art carved in the rock. The woods and the nearby countryside such as the Petruscio Gravina, offer beautiful and bucolic hiking trails, and do not miss tasting the local dishes: focacce and dairy products are a delight.
Taranto: la città dei due mari
Taranto is a city with an appeal of its own, it's nicknamed "The City of the Two Seas" because of its position between the Big Sea and the Little Sea. Taranto has a very ancient history and was founded by Spartans, it has been an important centre of Magna Graecia, as evidenced by artifacts preserved in the National Archaeological Museum of Taranto, but also the archaeological sites located in the city. The old town is a travel in time narrow alleys, historical buildings, and the majestic Cathedral of St Cataldo, the oldest cathedral in Apulia. Not far there is the fascinating Aragonese Castle which overlooks the sea, offering beautiful and moving views. The nearby sandy beaches allow you to relax in crystal clear waters, while the locale cuisine which is based on fresh fish and seafood (like the local variety of mussels) is a gastronomic experience not to be missed.
Alberobello: il paese dei Trulli
Continuing the journey, we arrive this time in the Itria Valley where it is impossible to not visit Alberobello, as it's like a fairytale made of stones. Walking in Rione Monti and Aia Piccola you can breathe a timeless atmosphere. Stop and go inside a Trullo and buy handcrafted souvenirs, perhaps something ceramic hand-painted.
Locorotondo and Cisternino: Balconies on the Itria Valley
Locorotondo, with its white houses and flowered balconies, is a lovely place to explore on foot and from here the view of the Itria Valley is stunning, especially during sunset. A few kilometers away, Cisternino welcomes visitors with its authentic soul and the "bracerie": small places where it is possible to choose fresh meat at the counter and have it cooked to eat it there.
Ostuni: la città bianca
The journey will take us to Ostuni which is considered a real gem of the Itria Valley. The bright white of its houses contrasts with the blue sky and the green of the centuries-old olive trees. Wander in its alleys and get to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, another masterpiece of Gothic art. Ostuni is also the perfect destination for those who want to relax thanks to the close proximity to the beaches of the Adriatic coast.
Polignano a Mare: Poetry and Sea
Polignano a Mare is a must-see town for sea lovers with a city that rises on a cliff that gives outstanding views. Dive into the blue sea from the beach of Lama Monachile, which is nestled among the high cliffs, and walk in the old town, through its small roads and poetic verses written on walls. Do not forget to stop to enjoy an authentic artisan ice cream or a panino with octopus, which is a local delicacy.
Monopoli: Mediterranean Charm
At a short distance, the city of Monopoli welcomes you with its old harbour and its defensive walls on the sea. Here the Baroque churches, Carlo V Castle, and the little cobblestone alleys offer postcard views. The city is perfect for a relaxing walk, ideally with a stop in a local restaurant to taste fresh fish.
Matera: i Sassi e la magia del tempo
The journey ends in Matera, the capital city of the region Basilicata. Geographically, it is on the border with Apulia and for this reason, often is included in the same itinerary. Matera is one of the most fascinating places in Italy because of the Sassi, which are the old houses carved in caves and tell an ancient story. It is essential to visit the cave churches and the Palombaro Lungo, an extraordinary underground cistern. Matera also offers cultural experiences such as exhibitions, festivals, and the cinematic charm that made it famous around the world.
Experiences not to be missed
- Tasting: try the Itria Valley's wines and local products such as extra-virgin olive oil, friselle and taralli.
- Trekking: walk along the trails of Parco della Murgia or Terra delle Gravine.
- Archaeology and History: do not miss the cave settlements with cave churches embellished with frescoes, the old towns, and the small local museums.
- Art and traditions: join the local fairs and learn about handicrafts, like the work of pottery, ironwork, or handmade pasta.
This itinerary will guide you through places that tell stories, experience scents and flavours that you will never forget. Apulia is an invitation to slow down, to wonder and to be enchanted by a generous and authentic South Italy. The above itinerary lasts about a week and focuses on Itria Valley and the surrounding areas. Due to itinerary time constraints, I left out the Gargano and Salento area. I will save them for the next trip. For any enquires or info, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Would you like to visit Apulia with travel buddies? Here is the link for the next group trip. "https://backandforth.travel/viaggi/" target="_self">https://backandforth.travel/viaggi/
