Puglia on its own. Apulia: Seaside holidays in Italy “without Russians”. Features of local cuisine

Puglia, known in Italy as Puglia, is a region located in the south of Italy. If you look at the map, Apulia will be the heel of the “Italian boot”.

Until recently, Puglia (Puglia - Italian) was not a tourist place in Italy at all, but more wonderful holiday in this region: local color and originality are much more pronounced here than in Rome or Milan.

What is Puglia famous for first of all? Cute towns in the baroque style, traditional local houses (local residents call them trulli), which in appearance resemble a cross between a hobbit hut and an Oz house. There is a lot of sun, magnificent olive groves and orchards, many kilometers of sandy beaches and delicious cuisine.

And by the way, there is more than one sea here. On the left, Apulia is washed by the Ionian Sea, and on the right by the Adriatic. Although they are part of the Mediterranean, the holiday here is somewhat different. During the hottest months, when the Mediterranean resorts are scorching hot, there is always a light breeze in Puglia.

Puglia is a predominantly rural area whose inhabitants have made a living since the days of the ancient Greek colonies agriculture. The scale of fruit and olive plantations amazes the imagination even today: these are not just gardens and groves, these are many kilometers of forests that fill the air with a completely unique thick aroma.

Among the attractions here are several ancient Greek cities, Roman settlements, church architecture from the Middle Ages and several majestic castles.

Despite the relatively recent tourist boom, Puglia can offer a lot of options for a comfortable holiday - from modern hotels and apartments to the so-called “masserias” - large manor houses in the center of rural estates.

Often, when staying in a masseria, the owners offer additional services, such as spa treatments at the local thermal springs, of which there are countless, or cooking classes.

How to get to Puglia?

The main airport of Puglia is located in the city of Bari, the capital of the region. Officially, the airport is named after Karol Wojtyła. There are regular flights here from many European countries. Often in the summer there are charter programs with direct flights from Russian tour operators and carriers (however, such programs are mainly offered from Moscow).

Bari Airport is quite large and convenient, there is a taxi-free point, a VIP lounge, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, car rental and others modern services.

Bari Airport metro station, Puglia, Italy

Another way to get to Bari is by high-speed trains from Rome, Milan and other large cities with regular flights to Russia. For example, a trip from Rome will take approximately 2 hours, from Milan - 8 hours. Transportation is carried out by the national carrier of Italy Trenitalia.

There is also a ferry service between Bari and other ports Adriatic Sea in Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece (Corfu). Before traveling to Puglia from Montenegro, make sure you have a valid Schengen visa as Montenegro, unlike Greece and Croatia, is not a Schengen country.

To be fair, it must be said that Apulia is also connected with other regions of Italy by intercity bus routes, but it is almost impossible for a foreigner to understand the intricacies of this type of transport. Trips are organized by small local carriers, often without even a clear website.

Drivers and cashiers do not speak English English language, the sites are also only available in Italian. There are a lot of route options; you often need to change trains. The schedule is followed very conditionally; the names of the stops may not be announced. So traveling by bus is a guaranteed risk of getting lost, unless you speak Italian.

Climate of Apulia

Puglia has a typical Mediterranean climate. Winters here are quite cool and windy. From December to February, storms and hurricane winds are common. The best time to visit Puglia is from May to October. Moreover, for beach holiday The period from mid-June to mid-September is suitable - it is at this time that the water temperature remains at a comfortable 23-25 degrees.

But May and October are more suitable for lovers of hiking and sightseeing: during these months there is no sweltering summer heat, the air temperature during the day does not exceed 22-24 degrees, and at night it usually does not drop below 18-20.

Unlike other regions of the Mediterranean, Puglia has a drier climate, so both heat and cold are more easily tolerated than in more humid areas. Another difference between Puglia and most Italian provinces is its flat terrain. There are no mountains in Puglia, so even in the hottest months there is a light breeze.

Transport in Puglia

Most tourists coming to Puglia prefer to rent a car. At the airport and at the railway station of Bari you can find at least a dozen different rental offices, where you will certainly choose the car that suits you.

The requirements are standard: you must be over 21 years old, have an international driver's license and a plastic card from any bank to apply for collateral.

Also, many rental companies offer additional services such as free road guides, navigators, child seats and similar services.

If you have booked a holiday in a small, remote town or rural area, having a car is essential, since transport links in Puglia, as in other provincial areas of Italy, are not very well developed.

In addition, having a car will give you some freedom to travel around the region, since the landscapes of Apulia deserve a short voyage along the coast and inland.

If for some reason car rental is not available to you, you can use local railway lines. It will be an adventure of its own, filled with local flavor and a certain charm. Tiny trains connect the small towns of Puglia with each other and with neighboring regions.

The schedule of such trains is a little lame, but the pleasure of the trip compensates for these inconveniences.
In relatively major cities Puglia has public transport, mainly buses. Tickets are sold at tobacco kiosks (shops with the Tabacchi sign or simply the letter "T"). Sometimes you can buy a ticket directly from the driver
Many residents and visitors to the region prefer to get around the cities by bicycle. Large and small rental offices can be found in any city, the price is quite reasonable compared to renting a car, and the distances are quite short

Features of holidays in Puglia

Since Puglia has only recently begun to develop as a tourist region, there are several points to take into account when organizing your trip.

Here, of course, there are no Russian-speaking employees in hotels, restaurants and museums. Moreover, few people speak English either. You should definitely take an Italian phrasebook with you if you are not sure that you can express yourself well enough on your fingers.

Shops, banks, tourist offices, rental offices and other establishments here operate according to their own schedule, which is not too tourist-oriented. Here you are unlikely to find night buses or 24-hour supermarkets and money changers
In small villages and towns, such infrastructure may be completely absent. Therefore, survey the area in advance for the establishments that are most important to you and study their schedules so as not to get into trouble.

Absolutely all establishments here close for siesta - a midday rest that can last several hours. As such, there is no common siesta schedule for everyone; each establishment sets its boundaries at its own discretion, but on average it lasts from 12:00-13:00 to 15:00-16:00

Italians are not very punctual and obligatory. Here, being 30-40 minutes late is perceived as the norm, 5-10 minutes is not considered late at all. Shops and banks may not open and close at the specified times, buses and trains may be slightly behind schedule
In small towns, the bus driver can, at his discretion, slightly change or even cancel the route if he feels that there are not enough passengers and the trip is unprofitable

Unlike the inhabitants of traditional tourist places (Rome, Milan, Venice), who are accustomed to everything, the inhabitants of Apulia are quite conservative, patriarchal and pious. They are simple and friendly in communication as long as you maintain decency (in their understanding)
If you have shown disrespect in some way, you may be quite emotionally reprimanded or publicly discussed about your “inappropriate” act

Italians - especially southerners - are not particularly polite. Here it is considered the norm to show your emotions as they are. Unlike northern Europe, here they will not smile at you out of politeness, they may not answer questions like “how to get to the library,” or they will be rude if you did something wrong. You shouldn’t take such moments to heart - it’s just a manifestation local mentality. Each nation has its own “cockroaches”.

Main resorts of Puglia

Marina di Andrano

Marina di Andrano is perhaps the most popular resort for a beach holiday. Coastline here it is indented with small bays, grottoes and rocky capes, which makes the sea calm and protected from the wind in any weather. The entrance to the sea in the bays is quite flat, the bottom is clean sand, and the water is particularly transparent.

In general, the main attraction of this resort is nature, the beauty of sea sunsets and snow-white sand combined with clear turquoise water. The most picturesque grottoes are located in the area of the Zona Botte and Zona Grotta Verde beaches.

The center of the resort is Andrano, a large town by local standards. The main architectural masterpieces of the city are the numerous churches built during the Middle Ages.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli translated from Greek means " a beautiful city" This is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Southern Italy, founded by the ancient Greeks.

Despite small sizes, there are quite a lot of attractions from different eras, especially in the Old Town, which is located on an island separate from the modern part of Gallipoli and connected to it by a bridge.

The city is suitable for a quiet, leisurely holiday. Here is the residence of the Duke of Anjou, one of the rulers of this area in the Middle Ages. Here you will find many amazingly beautiful corners and landscapes.

Gallipoli is also famous for its unique culinary traditions, especially seafood. For an evening pastime, you can find a lot of cafes and souvenir shops, and several attractions for children. The beaches in the Gallipoli area are ideal for families with children.

Galliano del Capo

Holidays in Galliano del Capo are primarily suitable for lovers of long walks and beautiful scenery. The main attractions here are the rocky coast, mesmerizing with its views, olive groves descending to the sea in terraces, rocky paths along the coast and many historical monuments, scattered throughout the surrounding area.

Recently, the regional government adopted a program to restore historically significant objects. Therefore, in the vicinity of Galliano del Capo you can feel the real course of history - from ancient times to the present day.

Trulli house in the vicinity of Galliano del Capo, Apulia, Italy

Margherita di Savoia

Margherita di Savoia is first and foremost thermal springs and everything connected with them. The baths of Margherita di Savoie are considered the best in all of Southern Italy, so the city is very popular among holidaymakers, and holidays here are considered prestigious and very healing.

Local thermal baths can offer a healing course for all types of diseases from ENT to gynecology and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, since local salts and muds have a very wide spectrum of action.

How thermal resort Margherita di Savoia has been known since the times of the ancient Romans, when only very wealthy and titled people could afford treatment here.

In addition to the thermal baths, Margherita di Savoia boasts unique architectural structures (mainly churches) and the world’s only salt museum, which contains the entire history of the extraction, processing and industrial use of salt marsh deposits.

Santa Cesarea Terme

Santa Cesarea Terme is another thermal resort in Puglia. Unlike Margherita de Savoie, he is relatively young, and the treatment centers here offer therapy sessions directly in karst caves with a unique healing microclimate, which a huge number located in the outskirts of the city. Santa Cesaria Terme is located on a rocky coast, and its many terraced streets descend to the sea, which gives special beauty to the local landscape.

Santa Cesaria Terme began to develop as a thermal resort only in the 18th century. The main clients of the local baths at that time were numerous aristocrats from the surrounding areas, who built luxurious residences and palazzos here. As a result of this popularity, today the city is a jewel of architectural styles popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Alberobello

Alberobello is one of the most amazing places in Apulia. This city reminds fairy village gnomes, because most of the buildings here are traditional trulli houses for this area - snow-white round houses with an unusual cone-shaped roof. To complete the experience, you can even stay for a couple of nights in one of the houses.

These houses are unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. In 1996 they were included in the list World Heritage UNESCO. The houses are unique not only in appearance, but also in the peculiarity of their construction: all of them were built without the use of cement or other fastening mortar. When constructing a trulli, the stones are stacked in such a way that when one stone is removed from the foundation, the entire house instantly collapses.

Trulli houses in Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

This feature is historically due to the fact that local peasants did not pay housing taxes. When the tax collectors approached, the entire village in an instant turned into a pile of bricks, and the tax collectors left without a slurp. It all ended with the local rulers issuing a decree prohibiting the construction of such houses. The ban is still in effect today.

Hotel in a trulli house in Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

Matera

Matera is another Puglia city included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Matera is famous for its houses built right into the rocks. Moreover, the first such settlements here date back to the Neolithic. During the early Middle Ages, Matera was chosen by fugitive Byzantine monks, who, along with their dwellings, built churches and monastic cells in the caves.

Basically, houses in caves were built by the poor for reasons of saving money and building materials: in fact, these are a kind of slums that existed in Matera for many centuries.

In the middle of the last century in the 1950s, the authorities began to forcibly evict the inhabitants of Matera from caves to modern quarters, since the sanitary conditions of these dwellings had long ceased to meet modern standards.

Currently, the surviving cave houses are often used by filmmakers different countries for filming historical scenes (for example, this is where Mel Gibson filmed his “Passion of the Christ”), some of them contain museums, fashionable restaurants and apartments.

Lecce

Lecce is the capital of the region of the same name in Puglia, a city unique in its beauty. Most of the houses here are built from local limestone "leccisu", the natural structure of which allows the buildings to be given the most bizarre shapes and exquisite decorations.

Thanks to these properties of the material, the architecture of Lecce stands out from other cities with its unique beauty and grandeur of buildings.

In addition, “lecchiza” is characterized by a unique golden hue, which is especially noticeable in sunny weather. Thanks to this, on a clear day in the historical quarters of Lecce, tourists are haunted by the illusion that all the houses are built of pure gold.

Most of the buildings date back to the Baroque era. Also in Lecho you can find numerous buildings of earlier times, starting from ancient times.

Brindisi

Brindisi since ancient Rome considered Italy's Gateway to the East. Due to its advantageous position, Brindisi has been an important fort and trading center since its founding. Over its long history, Brindisi has experienced many rulers, each of whom tried to leave their mark on the architectural appearance of the city.

Among the numerous historical buildings, you can trace the history of the city from antiquity to the present day. Here you can find unique medieval churches and ancient buildings, brutal defensive structures and airy palazzi.

Among the modern buildings, one can note the Monument to the Italian Sailor - a very controversial structure, but definitely memorable for all visitors.

Bari and its attractions

Bari is the second most important city in southern Italy after Naples. Historically, its significance stems from the fact that it was an important strategic point on the Via Trajana, the Roman imperial route to the Middle East.

After the fall of Rome, Bari continued to be a tasty morsel for many empires and conquerors due to its advantageous location.

Saracens and Byzantines, Normans and Venetians, Bourbons and kings of Aragnon fought for the right to own it. Over its long history, Bari was destroyed and reborn several times.

The city experienced its greatest prosperity during the reign of Napoleon. Bari retains its strategic importance to this day. Bari is the capital of the Apulia region.

All the administrative centers of the province, the main universities and government institutions, the largest trade and passenger terminals (both sea and railway) are located here.

From a religious point of view, Brai also plays an important role - it is here that the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Santa Claus, the patron saint of all children and travelers, are kept.

Basilica of St. Nicholas

The Basilica of St. Nicholas is important religious center not only in Puglia, but throughout Italy. It has been in operation since the 9th century. The relics of St. Nicholas are kept here, so the basilica is one of the main objects of pilgrimage throughout the Christian world.

Bari Castle

Bari Castle is a fortification built under the Normans. Over its long history, it was rebuilt many times by different rulers. The castle acquired its main shape during the reign of Aragon.

At various times, the castle served as a fortification, a prison for prisoners, and the residence of local rulers. Currently the castle houses historical Museum.

Old city

Old city is an area surrounded by medieval fortress walls. This part of Bari received its name in the century before last, when city buildings went beyond the old fortress walls. The new quarters, as opposed to the medieval ones, began to be called the New Town.

In the Old Town you can find many old buildings - from churches to residences of noble citizens. The typical atmosphere of the European Middle Ages reigns here with characteristic narrow streets, pavements and architectural masterpieces of different eras.

Pinacoteca Bari

Pinakothek - the largest museum visual arts in Southern Italy. The museum's exhibition includes a wide variety of paintings, ranging from the ancient period to paintings of the 19th century. It mainly displays works by local artists, as well as examples found during excavations in the Apulia region.

Petruzzelli Theater

Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the largest theaters in Italy. It is built in late XIX century by local patrons and has since served as the main cultural platform for the Bari region and the whole of Puglia.

Apulia is the easternmost region of Italy, washed by the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Puglia also boasts the longest coastline of any continental region. The region's land borders lie near the Fortore and Brandano rivers.

The terrain of Apulia is predominantly flat: mountains occupy only 1.5% of the territory.

Story

Since ancient times, Apulia was considered the granary of Ancient Rome. Good meadows, fertile lands, woolen products - this is what this region is famous for. According to legend, the local inhabitants of the area were Messapians and Apulians. These tribes - settlers from the north of the Adriatic - appeared on the territory of Apulia in the 11th-10th centuries BC. Later, Davni appeared here, hence the poetic name of Apulia - Davnia. According to the Romans, local residents are distinguished by superstition and hospitality. The largest river in Apulia is the Aufide. During the Second Punic War, the Apulians went over to the side of Hannibal, who defeated the Romans at Cannae. During the reign of Diocleatinus, Apulia was transformed into a province.

Climate and demographics

Puglia is characterized by a Mediterranean climate. Average temperature level in winter period is 6 – 16 degrees Celsius, and in summer – 28 – 33 degrees.

According to 2011 data, 4,091,259 people live in Apulia.

How to get to Puglia?

There are 2 international airports in Puglia - Bari and Brindisi. However, not one of them accepts flights from Russia. Despite this, you can easily fly here by making a transfer in Rome or Milan. It is worth noting that sometimes “in high season» Bari airport is launched charter flights From Russia.

You can also travel to Puglia by train. The journey from Rome to Bari will take you no more than two hours, and the ticket will cost about 40 euros.

Resorts of Puglia

Since Puglia is a coastal region, there are many resorts located here. The three most popular look like this:

The town of Vestier is popular with tourists due to its picturesque views.
In the province of Lecce is the resort of Marina di Andrano. The area is very beautiful, however, due to its rocky terrain, it is not at all suitable for families with small children.
The resort town of Galliano del Capo is known throughout the area for its clean beaches and velvet sea. It is here that sailing competitions are held annually.

What to see in Puglia?

The attractions of Puglia are located mostly in the major cities of the region.

If we talk about Bari, then you should definitely visit the historical city center. The Romanesque Basilica of St. Nicholas, the Church of St. George, the Gothic Cathedral of St. Sabino, Fort St. Anthony, now the Museum of Modern Art - these are far from full list what you can see here.
One of the greatest wonders of all of Italy is Matera. Despite the fact that it is located in a neighboring region, mainly tourists from Puglia come to see it. Read more about the unique Matera.
Also be sure to visit the Castellana cave system, which is located in the small town of Castellana Grotte, in the province of Bari.

What to try in Puglia?

The cuisine of Puglia for Russian tourists at first seems quite strange, however, after trying the dishes, almost everyone is always delighted.

In Puglia they prepare their own type of pasta called orecchiette; people often simply say “ears”. The signature dish of the region is orecchiette with turnip tops.
Another favorite dish of the Apulians is fava bean and chicory puree. It sounds quite strange, but it is actually very tasty.
Another traditional dish in Puglia is octopus baked in a pot with potatoes.

What to bring from Puglia?

Most often, tourists bring gastronomic souvenirs from Puglia. This is primarily a turnip sauce, orecchiette pasta, Lampagioni pickled onions, and a Vinkotto wine-based sauce.

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If we perceive Italy as a boot-shaped country on the map, then Apulia is its heel. It stretched along east coast and has always attracted conquerors, which is not at all surprising. Puglia is a region of beautiful landscapes, rich culture and ancient cities, which has long won the 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 of the Ionian Sea. Among all the regions of Italy, it is Apulia that has the longest coastline. The region has excellent transport links, which makes travel 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 - popular tourist destination with a rich history. Many people call him cultural capital 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.

Among the major cities of Puglia is 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. The local 12th-century cathedral 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, many of the castle’s interiors are open to tourists, including the throne room.

Puglia is often associated with the small fairytale town of 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.

The Gargano is a protected natural area that deserves attention. In that national park dozens of species of rare orchids and trees grow here. To admire the beauty of the Gargano, you can rent a bicycle and explore the paved trails. Or go by boat to neighboring islands, which are also included in the protected area. Located in the reserve mountain range Monte Gargano. 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 natural wealth of the region, Italians fell in love with it as a resort destination. However, not every city is equally suitable for a 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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Cleanest beaches on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, marked with the highest sign in the form of a blue flag, red land with contrasting crowns of olive trees, cozy churches and touching veneration of the Madonna, polished pavements and the interweaving of cultures of ancient civilizations, surprisingly responsive locals who lovingly maintain order on the coast, and housewives , moonlighting as cooks right in front of tourists. All this is the region of Puglia, the easternmost of all the regions of Italy. Those who were lucky enough to visit here remember this slightly authentic corner of the Apennine Peninsula with great warmth. On the map it looks like the heel and heel of an elegant Italian boot with a spur.

The administrative center of the Puglia region is located in Bari, a port city with a long and complex but interesting history. Back in the days of the Roman Empire, land roads, sea routes and pilgrim paths crossed here. Until now, the capital of Apulia is strategically important locality south of Italy.

Among the regions of Italy, Apulia is considered the leader in wine production. The region produces about 40% of olive oil.
In the Grotta del Cavallo cave, located in the province of Lecce, two human teeth were found, whose age is 43-45 thousand years.
Bari has the longest seaside promenade in Italy.
The relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, revered in Orthodoxy, the patron saint of Bari, were secretly taken to Apulia from Byzantium and placed in the crypt of the Catholic Basilica of St. Nicholas.
The city of Lecce is called the Florence of the south.
The most famous castle of the Middle Ages is located in the province of Bari. This is Castel del Monte, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In Italian, Puglia sounds like Puglia.
The end point of the Appian Way, which stretched from Rome to the south, was sea port Brundisium (today Brindisi). Its construction was completed in the second half of the 2nd century. BC, and the end of the path was marked by two marble columns.
The Apulian Aqueduct was built only at the beginning of the 20th century. Before this, the region suffered from droughts due to the small number of natural fresh water reservoirs.
The founder of the school of Italian sculpture, Niccolo Pisano (13th century), and the famous opera singer Farinelli (18th century), who underwent castration at an early age in order to preserve a high timbre of his voice, were born in Apulia.

Cities of Puglia

A little history

Archaeological finds indicate that homo sapiens lived on the territory of modern Apulia back in Paleolithic times. It is assumed that the ancient Greeks appeared in the southeast of the Apennine Peninsula around the 8th century BC. They constantly fought with the aborigines - the Messapians, Davani and Apulians, who gave the region its current name. The battles either subsided or flared up with renewed vigor. And this lasted until at the turn of the 4th-3rd centuries. BC. The Romans did not intervene in the situation.

Apulia after the fall of the western part of the Roman Empire (5th century) was plundered. The Goths and the Byzantines visited here, as well as the Lombards and the Saracens. The heyday came only in the 11th century with the arrival of the Normans to these fertile lands, who again organized trade flows between Europe and the East and included the “boot” in the Kingdom of Sicily. But the suffering of the Apulians did not end there. Spanish rule in the 15th and 16th centuries again brought the region into crisis. Interestingly, despite this confusion, in some parts of Apulia the Greek language continued to exist.

The region joined the united Italy in 1861. A little later, the boundaries of the Apulia region were determined. At first it included three provinces - Bari, Lecce and Foggia. In the 20th century, Brindisi and Taranto were distinguished. The most recent one, Barletta-Andria-Trani, appeared in 2004.

Sights of Puglia

The region is famous for the pristine beauty of its natural reserves and parks. Here you can see ancient burials - dolmens and mysterious stone obelisks - menhirs, get acquainted with architectural masterpieces of different eras and priceless works of art. In Puglia, tourists enjoy visiting cathedrals and medieval castles, farms and museum towns, karst caves and grottoes. Travelers' attention is attracted by ancient villages, monuments, castles and much more.

When to go to Puglia

Puglia weather

The region is characterized by low rainfall, mild winters and hot summers with low humidity levels. Sometimes the Mediterranean climate gives rise to surprise - it can snow here! As for the temperature, in summer it rises to 28-33 degrees, and in winter it remains between 6-15 degrees Celsius. In Puglia there are no natural barriers in the form of massive mountain ranges, and therefore the weather is quite often windy. Rain is a fairly rare occurrence. Typically they go late autumn and in winter.

Beaches with golden sands and crystal waters await guests from late spring to late autumn. Most of them fly blue flags, leaving no doubt about the cleanliness of the Puglia coastal area and the service provided. top level. Sunbathing here can be combined with boat trips to remote bays and caves, fishing and active recreation surrounded by pristine nature.

Throughout the year, travelers will find historical monuments and cities of art, museums and castles, basilicas and world heritage sites, the most famous of which are the trulli in Alberobello - funny houses with conical roofs. The colorful villages of Puglia await guests at any time of the year. You can time your arrival for one of the traditional holidays. Each of them is accompanied by colorful rituals or theatrical tournaments.

In order to taste local cuisine, sweet delicacies, fish, Negroamaro, Aleatico and Primitivo wine, unsurpassed burrata cheese, Altamura and Laterza bread - you don’t need to choose a special time. Apulians are always ready to offer tourists the most delicious menu!

Apulia on the map of Italy

The hilly and flat terrain of Apulia is located along the sea coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The length of the coastline is almost 860 km, which is the highest among mainland Italian regions. At the same time, only about 2% of the territory is mountainous, which defines the area as the least elevated. The most high peak belongs to Monte Cornacchia. Its elevation above sea level reaches 1152 meters.

Puglia borders areas such as Basilicata, Campania and Molise. The region unites six provinces. But its territory has another division, including seven historical and geographical zones. Their borders do not coincide with the borders of modern provinces.

How to get to Puglia

9 km north of Bari is the international airport Karol Wojtyła, named after Pope John Paul II. Airplanes flying to/from most European countries, as well as Egypt, Latvia, and Turkey land here. Puglia Airport also serves local airlines. Slightly less important international Airport Papola Casale is located in Brindisi, 35 km from Lecce.

Puglia is connected by road and rail with other regions of the country. In port cities, maritime passenger traffic is no less developed.

Puglia, known in Italy as Puglia, is a region located in the south of Italy. If you look at the map, Apulia will be the heel of the “Italian boot”.

Until quite recently, Puglia (Puglia - Italian) was not a tourist place in Italy at all, which makes holidays in this region even more wonderful: the local flavor and originality are much more pronounced here than in Rome or Milan.

Apulia on the map of Italy

What is interesting about Puglia?

Sandy beach in Polignano, Apulia, Italy

Salento, Puglia, Italy.

Puglia is a predominantly rural area whose inhabitants have made their living from agriculture since the days of the ancient Greek colonies. The scale of fruit and olive plantations amazes the imagination even today: these are not just gardens and groves, these are many kilometers of forests that fill the air with a completely unique thick aroma.

Olive groves in Puglia, Italy

Among the attractions here are several ancient Greek cities, Roman settlements, church architecture from the Middle Ages and several majestic castles.

Church of the Holy Cross in Lecce, Apulia, Italy

Despite the relatively recent tourism boom, Puglia can offer a lot of options for a comfortable holiday - from modern hotels and apartments to the so-called "masseria" - large manor houses in the center of rural estates.

Masseria Toricella, Apulia, Italy

Often, when staying in a masseria, the owners offer additional services, such as spa treatments at the local thermal springs, of which there are countless, or cooking classes.

Cooking master class at one of the masserias in Puglia, Italy

How to get to Puglia?

The main airport of Puglia is located in the city of Bari, the capital of the region. Officially, the airport is named after Karol Wojtyła. There are regular flights from many European countries here. Often in the summer there are charter programs with direct flights from Russian tour operators and carriers (however, such programs are mainly offered from Moscow).

Airport in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Bari Airport is quite large and convenient, there is a taxi-free point, a VIP lounge, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, car rental and other modern services. The airport is connected to the city by several bus routes - to the center and to the main railway station, see routes and schedule. You can also get to the city by metro; you can see the timetable.

Bari Airport metro station, Puglia, Italy

Trenitalia high speed train, Puglia, Italy

There is also a ferry service between Bari and other ports of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece (Corfu). Before traveling to Puglia from Montenegro, make sure you have a valid Schengen visa as Montenegro, unlike Greece and Croatia, is not a Schengen country.

Passenger ferry in the port of Bari, Puglia, Italy

Intercity buses in Italy

The drivers and cashiers do not speak English, and the websites are also only available in Italian. There are a lot of route options; you often need to change trains. The schedule is followed very conditionally; the names of the stops may not be announced. So traveling by bus is a guaranteed risk of getting lost, unless you speak Italian.

Bus service in Puglia, Italy

Climate of Apulia

Puglia has a typical Mediterranean climate. Winters here are quite cool and windy. From December to February, storms and hurricane winds are common. The best time to visit Puglia is from May to October. Moreover, the period from mid-June to mid-September is suitable for a beach holiday - it is at this time that the water temperature remains at a comfortable 23-25 degrees.

Winter sunset in Puglia, Italy

Summer day in Pergola, Puglia, Italy

Typical landscape of Puglia, Italy

Transport in Puglia

The requirements are standard: you must be over 21 years old, have an international driver's license and a plastic card from any bank to apply for collateral. You can see a list of rental companies with offices at Bari Airport.

Antique car rental in Puglia, Italy

Also, many rental companies offer additional services such as free road guides, navigators, child seats and similar services.

Car rental in Italy

If you have booked a holiday in a small, remote town or rural area, having a car is essential, since transport links in Puglia, as in other provincial areas of Italy, are not very well developed.

In addition, having a car will give you some freedom to travel around the region, since the landscapes of Apulia deserve a short voyage along the coast and inland.

Car rental in Italy

Local railway lines in Puglia, Italy

The schedule of such trains is a little lame, but the pleasure of the trip compensates for these inconveniences. A website where you can view routes and schedules can be found, however, all information is presented only in Italian
The relatively large cities of Puglia have public transport, mainly buses. Tickets are sold at tobacco kiosks (shops with the Tabacchi sign or simply the letter "T"). Sometimes you can buy a ticket directly from the driver
Many residents and visitors to the region prefer to get around the cities by bicycle. Large and small rental offices can be found in any city, the price is quite reasonable compared to renting a car, and the distances are quite short

Bicycle rental in Puglia, Italy

Features of holidays in Puglia

Since Puglia has only recently begun to develop as a tourist region, there are several points to take into account when organizing your trip.

Here, of course, there are no Russian-speaking employees in hotels, restaurants and museums. Moreover, few people speak English either. You should definitely take an Italian phrasebook with you if you are not sure that you can express yourself well enough on your fingers.

To travel to Puglia you need an Italian phrasebook

Shops, banks, tourist offices, rental offices and other establishments here operate according to their own schedule, which is not too tourist-oriented. Here you are unlikely to find night buses or 24-hour supermarkets and money changers
In small villages and towns, such infrastructure may be completely absent. Therefore, survey the area in advance for the establishments that are most important to you and study their schedules so as not to get into trouble.

Street selling pasta in Bari, Italy

Absolutely all establishments here close for siesta - a midday rest that can last several hours. As such, there is no common siesta schedule for everyone; each establishment sets its boundaries at its own discretion, but on average it lasts from 12:00-13:00 to 15:00-16:00

Street gatherings in Bari, Puglia, Italy

Italians are not very punctual and obligatory. Here, being 30-40 minutes late is perceived as the norm, 5-10 minutes is not considered late at all. Shops and banks may not open and close at the specified times, buses and trains may be slightly behind schedule
In small towns, the bus driver can, at his discretion, slightly change or even cancel the route if he feels that there are not enough passengers and the trip is unprofitable

Private pizzeria in Puglia, Italy

Unlike the inhabitants of traditional tourist places (Rome, Milan, Venice), who are accustomed to everything, the inhabitants of Apulia are quite conservative, patriarchal and pious. They are simple and friendly in communication as long as you maintain decency (in their understanding)
If you have shown disrespect in some way, you may be quite emotionally reprimanded or publicly discussed about your “inappropriate” act

Resident of Bari, Apulia, Italy

Italians - especially southerners - are not particularly polite. Here it is considered the norm to show your emotions as they are. Unlike northern Europe, here they will not smile at you out of politeness, they may not answer questions like “how to get to the library,” or they will be rude if you have done something wrong. You should not take such moments to heart - this is just a manifestation of the local mentality. Each nation has its own “cockroaches”.

Typical street in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Main resorts of Puglia

Marina di Andrano

Marina di Andrano is perhaps the most popular resort for a beach holiday. The coastline here is indented with small bays, grottoes and rocky capes, which makes the sea calm and protected from the wind in any weather. The entrance to the sea in the bays is quite flat, the bottom is clean sand, and the water is particularly transparent.

Sandy beach in Marina di Andrano, Apulia, Italy

Coast in Marina di Andrano, Apulia, Italy

The center of the resort is Andrano, a large town by local standards. The main architectural masterpieces of the city are the numerous churches built during the Middle Ages.

Piazza Castello, Andrano. Apulia, Italy

Gallipoli

Gallipoli means "beautiful city" in Greek. This is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Southern Italy, founded by the ancient Greeks.

Despite its small size, there are quite a lot of attractions from different eras, especially in the Old Town, which is located on an island separate from the modern part of Gallipoli and is connected to it by a bridge.

Old town of Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

Port of Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

Sandy beaches near Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

Galliano del Capo

Holidays in Galliano del Capo are primarily suitable for lovers of long walks and beautiful landscapes. The main attractions here are the rocky coastline, mesmerizing with its views, olive groves sloping down to the sea in terraces, rocky paths along the coast and many historical monuments scattered throughout the surrounding area.

Coast in the area of Galliano del Capo, Apulia, Italy

Trulli house in the vicinity of Galliano del Capo, Apulia, Italy

Margherita di Savoia

Margherita di Savoia is, first of all, thermal springs and everything connected with them. The baths of Margherita di Savoie are considered the best in all of Southern Italy, so the city is very popular among holidaymakers, and holidays here are considered prestigious and very healing.

Beaches in Margherita di Savoia, Apulia, Italy

Margherita di Savoia has been known as a thermal resort since the times of the ancient Romans, when only very wealthy and titled people could afford treatment here.

Mineral baths in Margherita di Savoia, Apulia, Italy

Sunset at the salt pans of Margherita di Savoie

Santa Cesarea Terme

Santa Cesarea Terme is another thermal resort in Puglia. Unlike Margherita de Savoie, it is relatively young, and the treatment centers here offer therapy sessions directly in karst caves with a unique healing microclimate, which are located in large numbers in the vicinity of the city. Santa Cesaria Terme is located on a rocky coast, and its many terraced streets descend to the sea, which gives special beauty to the local landscape.

Villa in Santa Cesaria Terme, Apulia, Italy

Thermal baths in Santa Cesaria Terme, Puglia, Italy

Alberobello

Alberobello is one of the most amazing places in Puglia. This city resembles a fairy-tale village of gnomes, because most of the buildings here are trulli houses, traditional for this area - snow-white round houses with an unusual cone-shaped roof. To complete the experience, you can even stay for a couple of nights in one of the houses.

These houses are unique and cannot be found anywhere else in the world. In 1996 they were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The houses are unique not only in appearance, but also in the peculiarity of their construction: all of them were built without the use of cement or other fastening mortar. When constructing a trulli, the stones are stacked in such a way that when one stone is removed from the foundation, the entire house instantly collapses.

Trulli houses in Alberobello, Puglia, Italy

Hotel in a trulli house in Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

Matera

Christian church, carved into the rock, Matera. Apulia, Italy

Basically, houses in caves were built by the poor for reasons of saving money and building materials: in fact, these are a kind of slums that existed in Matera for many centuries.

Rock slums of Matera, Apulia, Italy

Currently, the surviving cave houses are often used by filmmakers from different countries for filming historical scenes (for example, this is where Mel Gibson filmed his “Passion of the Christ”), some of them house museums, fashionable restaurants and apartments.

Hotel in Matera, Apulia, Italy

Lecce

Thanks to these properties of the material, the architecture of Lecce stands out from other cities with its unique beauty and grandeur of buildings.

Lecce, Apulia, Italy

Most of the buildings date back to the Baroque era. Also in Lecho you can find numerous buildings of earlier times, starting from ancient times.

Street in Lecce, Apulia, Italy

Brindisi

Brindisi has been considered Italy's Gateway to the East since ancient Rome. Due to its advantageous position, Brindisi has been an important fort and trading center since its founding. Over its long history, Brindisi has experienced many rulers, each of whom tried to leave their mark on the architectural appearance of the city.

Old town of Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Panorama of Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Among the modern buildings, one can note the Monument to the Italian Sailor - a very controversial structure, but definitely memorable for all visitors.

Monument to the Italian sailor in Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Bari and its attractions

After the fall of Rome, Bari continued to be a tasty morsel for many empires and conquerors due to its advantageous location.

Saracens and Byzantines, Normans and Venetians, Bourbons and kings of Aragnon fought for the right to own it. Over its long history, Bari was destroyed and reborn several times.

The city experienced its greatest prosperity during the reign of Napoleon. Bari retains its strategic importance to this day. Bari is the capital of the Apulia region.

Street in Bari, Apulia, Italy

All the administrative centers of the province, the main universities and government institutions, the largest trade and passenger terminals (both sea and railway) are located here.

From a religious point of view, Brai also plays an important role - it is here that the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, Santa Claus, the patron saint of all children and travelers, are kept.

Patriarchal Metochion of St. Nicholas, Bari, Apulia, Italy

Basilica of St. Nicholas

The Basilica of St. Nicholas is an important religious center not only in Apulia, but throughout Italy. It has been in operation since the 9th century. The relics of St. Nicholas are kept here, so the basilica is one of the main objects of pilgrimage throughout the Christian world.

Basilica of St. Nicholas in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Bari Castle

Bari Castle is a fortification built under the Normans. Over its long history, it was rebuilt many times by different rulers. The castle acquired its main shape during the reign of Aragon.

At various times, the castle served as a fortification, a prison for prisoners, and the residence of local rulers. Currently, the castle houses a historical museum.

Castle in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Old city

The Old Town is an area surrounded by medieval walls. This part of Bari received its name in the century before last, when city buildings went beyond the old fortress walls. The new quarters, as opposed to the medieval ones, began to be called the New Town.

Street in the old town of Bari, Puglia, Italy

Pinacoteca Bari

The Pinacoteca is the largest fine art museum in Southern Italy. The museum's exhibition includes a wide variety of paintings, ranging from the ancient period to paintings of the 19th century. It mainly displays works by local artists, as well as examples found during excavations in the Apulia region.

Pinacoteca Bari, Apulia, Italy

Petruzzelli Theater

Teatro Petruzzelli is one of the largest theaters in Italy. It was built at the end of the 19th century by local patrons and has since served as the main cultural platform for the Bari region and the whole of Puglia.

In addition to local celebrities, world-famous stars often give concerts here. At various times, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Luciano Pavarotti and others performed here.

Petruzzelli Theater in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Via Venezia

Via Venezia is a pedestrian street that is laid over the fortress walls of the Old Town, demolished by order of the Napoleonic governor of Bari, Gioachino Murata. The street is located on a slight elevation compared to other buildings, so it offers magnificent views of the Old Town and the port.

Corso Vittorio Emanuele

Corso Vittorio Emanuele is an avenue in the New Town, along which the main administrative and financial institutions of the city are located, as well as numerous buildings of the local aristocracy, from the time of Napoleon to the present day. There are also many restaurants and street cafes located here.

Via Corso Vittorio Emanuele in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Margarita Theater

The Margarita Theater is located in the New Town and is best known for being built right on the water on special stilts. At different times, various performances were held here - from musical shows to classical theater productions. Currently, the theater premises are used for an exhibition of contemporary art.

Teatro Margherita in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Palazzo Fizzarotti

Palazzo Fizzarotti is one of the most significant and impressive buildings in the New Town. It was originally built as a residential building for the Fizzarotti family. Currently, the interior of the palace is available for inspection; the palace is often used as a venue for various cultural events.

Fizzarotti Palace in Bari, Apulia, Italy

Castle of Castel del Monte

The most popular attraction in the area around Bari is Castel del Monte, built in the 13th century by Frederick the Great.

Castle of Castel del Monte in the vicinity of Bari, Apulia, Italy

In addition to the listed attractions in Bari you can find many churches from different eras, parks and squares, numerous villas and palazzos of the Apulian aristocracy, many historical exhibitions, theaters and exhibitions. Those wishing to receive the most complete information about the city and its attractions will find a complete list of objects. Here you can also find city guides and interactive maps.

Old town of Bari, Puglia, Italy

Shopping in Puglia

If we talk about shopping, the main shopping centers and malls are located, of course, in the capital of the province, Bari. The main shopping street here is called Sparano di Bari, and this is a real paradise for shopaholics of all stripes, since all the main boutiques and brand stores of the most famous Italian and European brands from luxury to economy class lines are concentrated here.

Shops on Sparano di Bari street, Puglia, Italy

The second street that deserves the attention of shopping lovers is called Corso Camillo Benso Cavour. Both streets are located in the New Town of Bari.

Puglia Outlet Village, Apulia, Italy

Lovers of local color will be interested in the Lecce flea market, Gallipoli antique market, and Alberobello craft market. Typically, such markets operate in the main square of the city on Sundays (the exact schedule can be checked with local residents, since the markets do not have an official schedule).

Swap meet in Puglia, Italy

Cuisine of Puglia

Since Apulia is a typical agricultural and fishing region, the local cuisine is rich in recipes with an abundance of vegetables, grains and seafood. Whatever dish you are offered here, it will definitely contain pasta (that is, products made from durum wheat), vegetables, sea creatures and olive oil.

Cuisine of Puglia, Italy

Orecchiette pasta- Looks like typical Russian homemade dumplings, but without filling. Instead of filling, the pasta is generously flavored with herb sauce and olive oil.

Orecchiette pasta with broccoli, Puglia, Italy

Cavatelli pasta- also a type of pasta that looks more like flattened shells. Served with stewed vegetables and seafood in a variety of combinations.

Cavatelli pasta with shrimp, Puglia, Italy

Panzerotti in different variations - these are pies. The filling can be different, so the second word in the name of the dish will mean exactly the filling: panzerotti la proscuito - pies with ham, panzerotti al accuja - pies with anchovies, and so on. These pies are fried in vegetable oil and look like something between sochny and pasties.

Sweet panzerotti, Puglia, Italy

Octopus is the most common seafood ingredient. There are a huge variety of octopus dishes here. The simplest thing is octopus baked with potatoes in a pot (the recipe and appearance are the same as the Russian dish of rabbit with potatoes).

Octopus stewed with potatoes, Puglia, Italy

Pastichotti- one of the most popular types sweets in Puglia. It's basically a shortbread with lemon jam inside. Also, different types of sweets are very popular ice cream, the most exotic of which is prepared from the pulp of a sweet Mexican cactus that grows everywhere here.

Pasticciotti, Apulia, Italy

The most popular wines primitive(young red tart wine) and aleatico(sweet dessert wine).

Young wine "Primitivo", Puglia, Italy

The best gastronomic establishments in terms of local flavor and adherence to recipes are considered to be masserias - rural hotels and restaurants, something like local estates.

Preparing a traditional lunch in Masseria, Puglia, Italy

As a rule, at a masseria there is a shop where you can buy products grown on this farm, as well as try real Apulian dishes prepared according to local village recipes.

Video. Holidays in Puglia

Video. “Choose Puglia!”, Pino Campagna

Video. Apulian tarantella

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