A heavenly holiday in charming Puglia! Puglia Italy - description, attractions, beaches Southern Puglia.
Apulia (Pulia listen)) is a region located in the south. Its area is 19.4 thousand km², which is 6.4% of the entire territory of the country.
The population is 4.016 million people, which is 7.1% of the population of all of Italy. The population density is about 210 people per km². The administrative center of Apulia is the city and port. Geographically, the region consists of six provinces: Taranto, Foggia, Brindisi, Barletta, Lecce and Molfetta.
Geography
Apulia is bordered in the north by, in the west by and, washed by the Adriatic Sea in the east, and in the southwest by the Ionian Sea. The region is in the “heel” of the “boot” of Italy.
Provinces of the Apulia region
Climate
The climate of Apulia is dry and hot, typical of the Mediterranean. average temperature in Bari: +9.1 °C in January and +24.8 °C in July. This region, the only one in Italy, has almost no mountains (they occupy only 2% of the territory of Apulia), so the relief of the entire area is hilly or flat. Coast almost everywhere it is low, the only exceptions being the areas of Gargano and Salento. On the coasts of Apulia there are two large bays: in the north - Manfredonia and - in the south of the region. The region also includes two archipelagos: the Keradi Islands and the Tremiti Islands. There are few rivers in Puglia: Cervaro, Candelaro, Fortore and the Ofanto River, which is the largest. On the Gargano Peninsula, in its northern part, there are two lakes: Varano and Lesina, connected to the sea through canals. Near Bari there are the Castellana caves, recognized as a unique natural phenomenon.
Transport
Puglia is connected with and by a well-developed network of railways and highways in the region. There are airports in Brindisi and Bari, the main port cities areas are Brindisi and Taranto. WITH Balkan Peninsula Puglia is connected by the Patras - Brindisi train ferry.
Services (buses and trains) for this region are provided by Ferrovie del Sud Est. Ticket prices for buses and trains vary from 1 to 16 euros, depending on the route. Weekly, monthly and annual passes are also sold.
Industry
The industry of this region began to develop not so long ago, but significant successes were achieved immediately. Funds for the development of industry in Apulia were allocated by the state assistance program for the southern regions and by private investors. There are 2 industrial districts in this region. The first is Brindisi and Taranto, with heavy industry (petrochemicals and oil refining, ferrous metallurgy, shipbuilding, mechanical engineering, aircraft manufacturing). And the second is Bari, with small and medium-sized businesses (food, clothing, paper, woodworking industries). Also, over the past few years, the industry of the cities of Foggia and Lecce has been actively developing (chemical industry, extraction of table salt and bauxite, agricultural engineering).
Agriculture
Agriculture suffered greatly from a shortage water resources. But relatively recently, this problem was solved thanks to the construction of a number of hydraulic structures that supply Apulia with water. The region's agriculture is currently one of the most promising and prosperous in southern Italy.
Vineyards of the Apulia region, photo: Flickr.com
Story
In the 7th century BC. The very first Greek colonies appeared on the territory of Apulia. Taranto became the main settlement. , who gave the name to this area, came to Apulia in the 2nd century. BC. The conquest of Apulia from the Romans took more than a hundred years, due to the resistance offered by the local population. The city of Brundisium was the largest Roman harbor located on the banks of Adriatic Sea. The Romans built two roads - Via Traiana and Via Appia, they connected Apulia and the central part of the empire. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Apulia experienced a long period of decline, which was caused by barbarian invasions, the Lombard-Byzantine War, revolts and pirate raids on the coast. The Lombards, Goths, Saracens and Byzantines visited here. A new flourishing of trade and agriculture was facilitated by the Normans who conquered Apulia in the 11th century. Apulia was a bridge between the East and Europe, through which pilgrimage, migration and trade flows passed.
In the XV-XVI centuries. Spanish rule slowed down the economic progress of the region, which led to a crisis in many areas of activity. The capital of Apulia was moved by the Spaniards from Bari to Naples. The region was the scene of struggle between Venice and Turkey. In 1861 Apulia joined the Italian state.
The territory of modern Apulia has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. Many megalithic monuments have been preserved.
Tourism and attractions
The city of Lecce, today with 83 thousand inhabitants, is the economic, cultural and spiritual center of the province of Salento. The city is located near two seas: the Ionian (23 kilometers) and the Adriatic (11 kilometers). The city has preserved quite a few architectural monuments from the Renaissance, the Middle Ages and antiquity. The 17th-18th centuries include the most interesting monuments architecture. The architects and sculptors who worked here knew the secret of how to process the local stone so that it remained soft the entire time they worked with it and hardened in the open sun. The Central Cathedral Square leaves an unforgettable impression. In addition to the bell tower and the Cathedral, which were built according to the design of the famous architect Giuseppe Zimbalo (1617-1710), you can also see the Archbishop's Palace and the Seminary Palace on the square. You should also definitely see the Basilica of Santa Croce, a building that cannot leave indifferent even a person far from art, the churches of Sant'Anna, Sant'Irene, the Prefectural Palace, the churches of San Matteo, Santa Chiara and many others.
Of great interest to tourists is the ancient city of Bari, which is administrative center Apulia. The city is conventionally divided into two parts: the new and the old city.
Palazzo Fizzarotti Bari, photo: Flickr.com
In Bari there is the famous Basilica of San Nicola, in which the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker have been buried for more than 9 centuries.
Saint Nicholas is a Christian saint who became famous for his miracles both during his life and even after death. He is revered not only by Catholics and Orthodox Christians, but also by pagans and Muslims. Saint Nicholas is one of the most beloved saints of ecumenical Orthodoxy in Russia and Ukraine, he is the patron saint of travelers and traders, a defender of piety and chastity, and a helper to the poor.
Opposite the Basilica of St. Nicholas, on the corner of the square, sculptor Zurab Tsereteli erected and donated to the city of Bari a monument to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker (2002)
Basilica of St. Nicholas
Also among the attractions of Bari are the grandiose Norman Castle and, of course, the Cathedral of San Sabino. The construction of the Norman castle in 1131 was started on the orders of Roger II of Normandy, who was the first king of the Kingdom of Sicily. He united the Norman possessions of southern Italy and Sicily under his rule.
It is also worth visiting the small town of Alberobello. There you can see amazing houses with unusual conical roofs called trulli. Not far from Alberobello, a few kilometers away, is the town of Castellana, with its unique complex of caves (Grotte di Castellana).
Every first Sunday of the month, Gallipoli hosts an antique market. In August you can visit the craft markets in Alberobello and Grumo Appula. In Lecce it works for 10 days in May flower market, and every last Sunday of the month there is a flea market in Piazza Libertini.
In Piazza Teresa in Brindisi you can visit the large monthly market where unique items and antiques are sold at very high prices. low prices. Acquarica del Capo has one of the best markets, where you can buy various handicrafts made from straw, bamboo and other materials.
Kitchen
In Puglia, three dominant elements can be distinguished in the preparation of traditional dishes: considered one of the best in the world, durum wheat and vegetables.
Cuisine of the Puglia region with a modern twist by chef Pietro Zito
Photo: Flickr.com
Pasta dishes are an important component on the table of local residents. Orecchiette is Puglia's most unique pasta, traditionally prepared with turnips. An equally popular dish is tiella (translated as terracotta pot) of vegetables with potatoes, rice and mussels.
Celebrities of the Apulia region
Puglia is proud of many of its natives. Among them: Italian Prime Minister Aldo Moro (1916-1978); film actors Michele Placido (b. 1947) and Rudolph Valentino (1895-1926); singer Tito Skipa (1889-1965); composers Niccolò Piccinni (1728–1800) and Umberto Giordano (1867–1948); singer-soprano Farinelli (1705-1782); the famous monk, miracle worker and healer Padre Pio (1887-1968); sculptor and architect Nicola Pisano (1220 - 1278).
Puglia is a charming region of Italy, stretching along the sea, delighting every traveler with its incredible beauty. “The heel of the Italian boot” is how Italians affectionately call the region.
And indeed, if you look closely at the map of Italy, Apulia in its shape resembles the heel of a boot with a spur.
Location of Puglia on the map of Italy
In Italy, the region of Puglia is the easternmost of all. The coast of Apulia is the longest on the mainland of the country, washed by two seas - the Adriatic and Ionian. In the south of the region, the Salento peninsula forms the so-called “heel of Italy’s boot.” The region is located predominantly in flat areas. On the territory of Puglia there are two large natural national parks - Murgia and Gargano.
Nature is the main attraction of the province, capable of making even the most fastidious critic fall in love with it. Everything in this region is filled with sun, sea, love and... wine!
Tourists will clearly not be faced with the question of what to see in Puglia; the region can satisfy any tastes and interests.
The region bears the imprint of the Middle Ages and the Baroque era, preserving many architectural monuments, artistic creations and a unique way of life.
Attractions
Puglia in Italy differs from other regions in its attractions.
In Italy, the cities of Puglia are some of the most visited by tourists interested in the architecture and history of the country:
- Andria– when traveling around Puglia, you should definitely visit this wonderful city, which is the center of olive and almond cultivation in the region. The best wines in Puglia are grown on plantations located around the city. Back in the 13th century, Andria was the favorite residence of Frederick II. The most famous of the Italian castles, Castel del Monte in Apulia, was built by order of Frederick II, 15 km south of the historical center of the city.
Castle of Castel del Monte in Andria
In addition to Castel del Monte, Andria we have big amount attractions:
- a 12th-century cathedral with a 7th-century crypt;
- Doge's Palace;
- Church of San Domenico (XIV century);
- city palace;
- Church of Santa Maria di Porta Santa (XIII century);
- sanctuary of Santa Maria dei Miracoli (XVI century);
- Church of St. Francis with a monastery (XII century);
- Church of San Agostino, built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights.
- San Giovanni Rotondo- a place of pilgrimage for Catholics. Once upon a time, the Catholic Saint Pio lived and died there, whose relics are kept in the Capuchin monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazia. Not far from the city extends national park Gargano, famous for its caves, salt lakes and wild forest.
Gargano National Park near San Giovanni Rotondo
- Alberobello- a city famous for its peculiar stone, white houses with sharp conical roofs - trulli. The architecture of the city that has survived to this day is so unique that the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- Bari- capital of Apulia. After , Bari is the second most economically important city in Southern Italy. well known as a port and university town, as well as the city of St. Nicholas.
- Lecce- the pearl of Puglia. Due to its rich variety of Baroque architectural monuments, the city received the nickname "Southern Florence" in Puglia. The city is also famous for its olives and wine, which you can try on special gastronomic tours.
You can admire the sights of Puglia and find out all the details about the region by watching the video:
Beach holiday
It's no secret that Puglia has the best beaches. Starting from the north of Puglia, the rocky Cape Gargano stretches, delighting with its coastal landscape: emerald hills give way to white cliffs, azure sea, golden sands and heavenly pebble coves.
The beaches around Rodi Gaganico, Peschici and Vieste are especially popular.
Heading south down the Adriatic, on the coast between Manfredonia and lively Bari, you'll find a range of sand and pebble beaches, Margherita di Savoia nature reserve and some beautiful cities such as Trani with its fabulous cathedral facing the sea. Sandy beaches are a rarity for the region, you will find them in beautiful cities Polignano Mare and Monopoli, which are definitely worth a visit.
Sandy beaches of Monopoli
Continuing to move south towards Brindisi (one of the most important ports of Apulia), stretch sandy beaches Marina di Ostuni and a fabulous nature reserve Torre Guaceto. Nature reserve – real paradise for the naturalist, with untouched forests, Mediterranean poppies and flocks of flamingos.
Special mention should be made best resorts Apulia - Marina di Pescoluse, Torre dell'Orso, Polignano Mare, Margherita di Savoia and Gallipoli.
More details about each resort:
Sports recreation
The two seas of Puglia are ideal for sports recreation in the lap of nature. Those who love excitement will be able to enjoy the charming and mysterious atmosphere of the sea.
Crystal clear waters The Tremiti Islands offer incredible views of the sea, lively coves, caves and a deep seabed populated by lush vegetation and a large population of fish.
Santa Maria di Leuca- one of best places in Italy for underwater diving. Diving to a depth of 90 meters, you can watch amazing species of fish and see sea flowers. Those who want to have fun above the water can go windsurfing or kite surfing.
In Santa Maria di Leuca you can observe underwater inhabitants
But it is not only the sea that provides resources for active recreation in the region. If you want to feel one with nature, be sure to start your acquaintance with it through a bike ride.
You don't need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy traveling on two wheels.
In natural Gargano Nature Reserve There are wonderful bike paths that allow you to travel around the huge park in just a day.
Festivals
Many festivals, fairs and historical celebrations take place throughout the year in every part of Puglia.
Among them, the most famous are the Carnival of Putignano, the Festival of San Nicola in Bari and the Disfida di Barletta.
And no one should miss night of Taranta in Melpigianano, festival of pizzica and dancing Tarantella, which every August delight visitors from all over Europe, forcing them to... local residents sing and dance to the sounds of a tambourine under the moonlight.
Features of local cuisine
Apulian cuisine has never been distinguished by intricate recipes and is based on simple ingredients. However, it can satisfy every taste. Its main elements are durum wheat, vegetables and olive oil, combined with meat and fish.
In Puglia you will enjoy delicious Italian dishes
A distinctive feature of the cuisine is homemade pasta made from durum wheat varieties or mixtures of different varieties. The combination between pasta and vegetables is unexpectedly amazing. For example, šaršinati is served with cabbage and fried bacon or tomatoes and cachoricotta cheese.
Thanks to its large coastline, the region offers a wide variety of fish dishes (marinated, raw, dried, etc.).
Those with a sweet tooth will be tempted by dried fruits, honey, mulled wine, candied fruits and chocolate. Be sure to try some of the Christmas sweets if you're there in the winter!
How to get there?
To the question of how to get from Moscow to Puglia, there is the most correct answer - by air. The international airport in Puglia is located in Bari. Having flown to Bari, you can take a train or bus to any other city. All detailed information Flight information can be found here: http://www.aeroportidipuglia.it/homepagebari
You can also rent a car and drive it to your destination yourself. This pleasure is not cheap, detailed information about distances and travel prices (we remind you that the roads in Italy are paid) can be viewed here: http://www.aeroportidipuglia.it/it/web/10181/parcheggi.
If you are traveling “comprehensively” in Italy, then you can on high speed train get to Bari from , Rome, Florence, . Information about routes and ticket prices can be viewed here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en.
Weather
The climate in Puglia is Mediterranean. Winters in the region are typically cool and windy, with hurricane-force winds possible.
Puglia is at its most “friendly” from May to October. The beach period usually lasts from mid-June to the end of September, the average water temperature during this period is 23-25˚C.
You can enjoy a beach holiday in Puglia from mid-June to the end of September
But here's to exploring the region or enjoying walking, summer and the Velvet season the most inappropriate pairing - the sweltering heat will quickly tire you.
May and October are the most comfortable months for sightseeing.
On average, the air temperature during the day is 22-23˚С, and at night it does not fall below 18˚С.
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If we perceive Italy as a boot-shaped country on the map, then Apulia is its heel. It stretches along the eastern coast and has always attracted conquerors, which is not at all surprising. Apulia - region beautiful landscapes, rich culture and ancient cities, which has long won the due attention of tourists.
Location of Apulia
The region is located in the southeast of the Apennine Peninsula. In the north and east its borders are washed by the Adriatic Sea, and in the south by the waters Ionian Sea. Among all the regions of Italy, it is Apulia that has the longest coastline. The region is well developed transport connection, which makes the trip as comfortable as possible. Several train lines connect Puglia with other parts of Italy. And there are international airports in Brindisi and Bari.
Puglia map
Major cities of Apulia
The main city of the region is Bari, a popular tourist destination with rich history. Many call it the cultural capital of Southern Italy, especially when it comes to religious tourism. Christian (including Orthodox) shrines are concentrated in Bari, for which believers travel to the city even from neighboring Greece. Bari is divided into a historical part with numerous monuments from different eras and a new part with picturesque squares, museums and restaurants.
To the number major cities Apulia includes Lecce, which is often compared to Florence for its abundance of Baroque monuments. However, not only buildings in the Baroque style shape its appearance. Lecce has Roman, Greek and Austrian heritage. To see at least some of the sights, you will have to stay in the city for several days.
Climate of Apulia
Apulia is characterized by a typical Mediterranean climate - with mild winters (at least +6°C) and hot summers (on average +33°C). However, the heat is easier to bear than in northern Italy. The reason is that there are no high mountains and nothing restricts the air flow. Mountains occupy only 2% of the territory - a rarity by Italian standards.
Book a hotel in Puglia at the best price
Sights of Puglia
A significant part of the region's monuments are concentrated in Bari. Local Cathedral The 12th century is an interesting example of Romano-Apulian architecture. The three naves inside the structure are separated by 16 columns. The cathedral contains valuable icons and relics, and fragments of the Byzantine chapel that previously stood on this site have partially survived. Another religious shrine of Bari is the Basilica of St. Nicholas. Thousands of pilgrims come here to venerate the relics of the saint. The decoration of the basilica uses cornices, capitals and reliefs from ancient Byzantine monuments. Particularly noteworthy is the 12th century episcopal throne, carved from marble.
Near the city of Andria there is a monument from the 13th century - the Castle del Monte. It was perfectly preserved and arrived in almost its original form. There is debate about the purpose of the castle. Some scientists are sure that it served as the hunting residence of the ruler Frederick II. Others disagree: del Monte's decoration was too chic. Nowadays there are many open for tourists interior spaces castle, including the throne room.
Puglia is often associated with a small fabulous city Alberobello. The trulli - white houses with a conical dome roof - brought him fame. Similar structures are not found anywhere else. It may seem that all trulli are exactly the same. But in fact, they differ in the masonry of the dome and the mark of the master. Some trulli serve as houses, while others house museums or souvenir shops.
Gargano deserves attention - protected natural area. This national park is home to dozens of species of rare orchids and trees. To admire the beauty of the Gargano, you can rent a bicycle and explore the paved trails. Or take a boat to the neighboring islands, which are also part of the protected area. The Monte Gargano mountain range is located in the reserve. It is famous for the sanctuary of Michael the Archangel - popular place pilgrimage.
Holidays in Puglia
Hospitable Puglia offers dozens of options for spending your holiday. And since kilometers of beaches are the main thing natural wealth region, Italians fell in love with it as a resort destination. However, not every city is equally suitable for beach holiday. For example, the coast near Bari is predominantly rocky. It is better to choose Salento with its quiet sandy bays and shallow, clear sea. Vieste has been repeatedly noted for the purity of its water. Its coastline is surrounded by quaint grottoes, which is why the beach is popular with divers.
Those who are tired of a standard holiday should take a closer look at wine and gastronomic tours. This type of holiday is popular among connoisseurs of Mediterranean cuisine and quality wines. The secrets of Puglia's cuisine are revealed during visits to the best wineries, ancient bakeries, family cheese dairies and master classes.
Puglia is also attractive as a pilgrimage destination and a region for active recreation. The best way explore its nature and monuments - join a cycling or walking tour.
Shopping in Puglia
While holidaying in Puglia, it is worth taking advantage of the region's shopping opportunities. Most large cities offer a wide variety of boutiques from both emerging Italian designers and the most famous brands (Armani, Gucci). For shopping, it's worth going to Bari with its bustling shopping areas and multi-brand stores. Near the city there is an outlet with 150 boutiques. It is believed that clothing prices in Puglia are lower than in Northern Italy.
If you want to take home traditional souvenirs or products, it is worth remembering: each province of Apulia is known for its unique goods. For example, the province of Foggia is proud of its excellent delicacies, as well as rose and red wines. It is worth bringing textiles, shoes and wooden products from Barletta and Murge. And you can take away interesting antiques from the city of Brindisi - they are sold during the monthly fair on the square. Teresa.
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The region of Puglia is still little explored by tourists, but you can simply relax there.
The fertile lands of Apulia have been a hospitable home to many civilizations and peoples. From the 8th century BC e. the ancient Hellenes began to build colony cities here, and for centuries Apulia was part of the great ancient Greek civilization. But the Greeks did not come out of nowhere - before them, various nationalities already lived here, and the region got its name from the name of one of them - the Apulians. However, the origins of the settlement of the region are much older: archaeologists have found the remains of settlements dating back to the Stone Age.
In the era Ancient Greece large trading and cultural centers there were Taranto and Brindisi, they also flourished later - during the Ancient Rome. As part of the ancient Roman Empire, the region was the main granary and agricultural region, and transport and trade developed.
In the Middle Ages, Apulia was ruled in turn by foreigners: Normans, Germans, French, Aragonese... From each era, the cities of Apulia have their own architectural evidence: Romanesque temples, fortresses and castles.
Cities and attractions of Puglia
Bari
Foggia
Mysterious Chiesa del Calvario, Foggia The center of the northernmost province and the tomato capital of Italy (half of the entire harvest of this vegetable in the country is grown in the province), Foggia is beautiful town with many historical monuments. More of them would have been preserved if there had not been earthquakes and bombings of World War II. Of the buildings that have survived and been restored, the most noteworthy are the majestic cathedral, the mysterious Church of Golgotha (del Calvario), and the ancient palazzos of Arpi and Dogana.
Lecce
Amphitheater, Lecce The architecture of “southern Florence” is dominated by the Baroque style. The main Baroque ensembles are grouped around the Duomo and Sant'Oronzo squares. The well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater is amazing.
Andria
Castel del Monte del Monte), Andria In the 13th century, it was the favorite residence of Emperor Frederick II, next to which he built the Castel del Monte fortress. Today this mysterious octagon-shaped castle is one of the most famous in Europe and is protected by UNESCO.
Taranto
Castel Sant'Angelo (Castello Aragonese), Taranto Founded by the Spartans, Taranto has always retained the significance of an important port. The entrance to the harbor is guarded by the formidable fort of Castel Sant'Angelo, the calling card of the city. It is called Aragonese, because it was during the Aragonese rule that it was significantly expanded, but the very first fortifications on this site belong to the Byzantines. An extensive network of dungeons and catacombs dates back to the same era.
Matera
City of Matera In the famous cave city Of interest are not only the churches, monasteries and houses carved into the rocks, shrouded in the indescribable mysticism of the underground. The city also has many original museums (peasant life, history of the city, olive oil, etc.) and more than a hundred temples.
Resorts of Puglia
A popular tourist area is the Gargano Peninsula in northern Apulia. Most washed by the Adriatic Sea mountain range ranks national natural Park with ancient deciduous forests, and the picturesque coastline is full of bays, caves, and cozy beaches. The villages of Vieste, Peschici, Mattinata are world famous seaside resorts.
The small town of Monopoli in the province of Bari attracts great beaches With pure water– there are more than 20 of them in the immediate vicinity.
And next to Barletta is the best in southern Italy thermal resort of Margherita di Savoia, whose springs have been known since ancient times and effectively treat many diseases.
Hotels in Margherita di Savoia
Salento
Marina di Pescoluse, Salento Travelers have chosen the tourist area of Salento, located in the southern part of Puglia.
The most striking places to visit: major cities and attractions, popular beaches and hotels.
There is an atmosphere of serenity and carelessness. Walking along the clean streets, you can admire dancers performing the tarantula dance, with the help of which in ancient times they healed people bitten by a tarantula. The resort usually hosts a festival called “Night of Taranta” in August. In this tourist area there are many historical monuments and architectural monuments. Looking at the sights, you will be imbued with the spirit of Italy.
Cuisine of Puglia
Sample local seafood and fish dishes. You will be offered sea crucian carp, crabs, sea bream, and shrimp. Italian chefs are excellent cooks, so you shouldn’t give them any recommendations for preparing dishes.
Burato Order the local Burato cheese, which is a small bag of cheese and delicate cream. To prepare the dish, two types of cheese are used - mozzarella and stracciatella.
Try the Apulian wine Primitive di Mandura. It goes well with grilled cheese and lamb dishes.
Transport in Puglia
There are airports in three cities of Puglia: international - in Bari and Brindisi, for domestic flights - in Foggia.
The main transport hub is, of course, Bari - it regularly receives flights from Rome and many European cities, and trains and buses depart from it to the cities of Italy and Puglia.
There are good road connections between the cities of Puglia, and water transport also runs between some ports. For intercity travel it is more convenient to use trains or regular buses. It is also quite easy to rent a car.
The region of Apulia is located on southeast coast Apennine Peninsula, occupying the heel of the Italian “boot”. This traditionally agricultural region is also one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Italy. The world famous trulli city of Alberobello and the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker in Bari, cozy seaside towns And sunny beaches, huge amusement parks and thermal springs, olive groves, wineries, castles, caves - all this will give travelers a lot of new discoveries and impressions.
Business card
Apulia has the longest coastline in Italy, washed by two seas - the Adriatic and Ionian.
What to see, where to visit
In the capital of the region, the city of Bari, where acquaintance with Italian Puglia most often begins, there is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, where the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker are kept. Also worthy of attention gothic cathedral St. Sabino, the Church of St. George, the Pinacoteca, located in the building of the Provinciale Palace, and Fort St. Anthony, within the walls of which a museum of modern art is opened.
No less famous is the town of Alberobello, where you can see trulli - small whitewashed houses with conical roofs. The main city temple, the Church of St. Anthony, was built in the same style.
In general, interesting sights can be found in every corner of Puglia. In Andria there are numerous churches, the Candy Museum and the famous “castle on the mountain” Castel del Monte; in Barletta - a white stone castle and a huge bronze colossus erected in honor of the Roman emperor; in Brindisi - Grande Castle and Forte Mare Fortress; in Ostuni - amazingly beautiful historical Center with intricate streets and snow-white houses; in Martino Franca (20 km from Ostuni) - the Ducale Palace, where Leonador da Vinci, Donatello and other Italian geniuses once lived; in Lecce - richly decorated baroque palaces, churches and mansions; in Gallipoli - impressive architectural monuments different eras and styles.
In addition, there are several natural parks in the region (Gargano, Pollino, Gallipoli Cognato, Alta Murgia, etc.), and 40 km south of Bari, in the town of Castellana Grotte, there is a unique complex karst caves, along which a 3-kilometer excursion route runs.
Beaches
The coast of Puglia in Italy, stretching along the Adriatic Sea, is a long series of picturesque beaches, mostly sandy.
There are excellent beaches in the north of the region - on the rocky shores national park Gargano (resorts Matinatta, Vieste, Rodi) and on the Tremiti islands. Towards Bari and further south there are a number of large sea resorts(Barletta, Trani, Molfetta, Monopoli, Torre Canne, etc.) with well-equipped beaches stretching for tens of kilometers.
In southern Apulia, the most popular beaches are Brindisi, Ostuni, Marino di Odriano, Otranto, Galliano del Cape, Porto Cesareo, Gallipoli, etc. This part of the coast is characterized by expressive landscapes - grottoes, rocky bays and natural panoramic terraces.
Springs and healing
Holidays in Puglia can be combined with treatment at one of the local thermal resorts. The most famous are the Baths of Torre Canne (province of Brindisi), rich in healing mud, which are widely used for respiratory diseases, rheumatic and orthopedic problems; Margherita di Savoia (province of Barletta-Andria-Trani), famous for its salt lakes; Santa Cesaria Terme (province of Lecce) with hot sulfur springs that help in the treatment of rheumatism and dermatological diseases.
Entertainment and active recreation
Vacationers spend most of their time on the beaches - sunbathing, swimming, doing aquatic species sports and beach games. You can go for a walk through the vineyards and olive groves (on foot or by bike), drive to a natural or amusement park, attend any cultural event: every town has its own traditional holidays. No less enjoyable are trips to shops, outlets and markets: antique markets in Gallipoli and Brindisi, craft markets in Alberobello, and flower markets in Lecce. In the evenings, tourists will find restaurants, bars, nightclubs and discos. How larger city or resort - the higher their concentration.
Local cuisine and wines
Local kitchen based on natural products grown (or extracted) here in Puglia. The most famous delicacies are Tarantino oysters and mussels, octopus dishes, fish baked in salt, mozzarella and burrata made from the most delicate cream, lamb cooked in pots, orecchiette pasta with turnips, Apulian cauliflower, etc. Mandatory component - Apulian olive oil, considered the best in Italy.
In addition, it is worth trying original desserts made from fruit and honey, as well as locally produced wines - for example, red Salice Salentino or white Locorotondo.
Family holiday
Puglia has several fun parks for the whole family. Thus, in Italy’s largest safari park Zoosafari (Fasano, 60 km from Bari) you can see dozens of species of wild animals, attend a dolphin show or ride a mini-train through a monkey village. The Miragica amusement park (Molfetta, 24 km from Bari) has an amazing “Land of Giants”, rides and a 4D cinema. Indiana Park (50 km from Bari) offers exciting adventures for all ages and skill levels. 20 km from Brindisi (the village of Cellino San Marco) there is a huge Carrisiland water park, and not far from Lecce there is a park water activities Splash.
