A trip to Italy's 'heel' unveils absorbing history, sublime gastronomy & dramatic coasts.
A rugged, peninsular region forming the heel of Italy's ‘boot’, Puglia is a sun-soaked gem known for its captivating architecture, vast olive groves and crashing coastline. Historically a land of passage and conquest, Puglia has a headturning mix of architectural styles, with Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Spanish and Norman influences. The labyrinthine Old Town of the region's capital, Bari, reveals a wealth of history; the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alberobello, is famed for its unique Trulli dwellings, and Lecce's striking Baroque architecture has earned it the nickname, the 'Florence of the South'. When it comes to cuisine, it’s best to leave your preconceptions at the door and embrace Puglia’s distinct dishes like orecchiette pasta with turnip tops.
With a compelling history, astonishing scenery and the characteristic warmth of the people, Puglia is a southern Italian treasure.
Off the beaten track
Venture inland to the Itria Valley to explore lesser-known towns such as Locorotondo and Cisternino; delve into the Grotte di Castellana, a vast and intricate system of caves; or go wildlife spotting in the Gargano National Park.
Something to think about
Although Puglia has a modern tourism scene, English may not be widely spoken outside of larger towns and hotspots, so learning a few basic phrases in Italian could be beneficial.
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