Puglie Italy. What to bring from Puglia? Shopping in 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. The seashore is low almost everywhere, with 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 of the area are Brindisi and Taranto. Apulia is connected to the Balkan Peninsula 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 lack of 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 shores of the 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 most interesting architectural monuments date back to the 17th–18th centuries. 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.
The ancient city of Bari, which is the administrative center of Puglia, is of great interest to tourists. 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 there is a flower market for 10 days in May, and every last Sunday of the month there is a flea market in Piazza Libertini.

In Piazza Teresa in Brindisi you can visit a large monthly market where unique items and antiques are sold at very 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).

In the very east of Italy is the region of Apulia, washed by the Ionian and Adriatic seas. If we look at the coastline of the Italian coast, we will notice that Puglia has the longest one, this is the “heel” of Italy.

The capital of the region is Bari.

How to get to Puglia

From the cities of Germany, Belgium, Great Britain and the Italian cities of Milan and Rome there are direct flights to Bari airport. From the UK and Switzerland to Brindisi International Airport. Can be reached in Apulia and by train from Rome and Milan.

IN Brindisi and Bari have water connections with Greece. Ferries sail regularly to the islands of Kefalonia, Corfu, Patras, Zakynthos and the town of Igoumenitsa.

The region itself has plenty of local public transport (trains and buses).

Climate and weather of Apulia

This region has a Mediterranean climate, the average temperature in summer is +31 degrees C, in winter from +6 to +16.

Shopping

Every first Sunday of the month on Gallipoli The Antique Market opens. In August you can visit the craft markets in Alberobello and in Grumo-Appula.

In May in Lecce A flower market opens for 10 days. There is a flea market in Piazza Libertini every last Sunday of the month.

There is a large monthly market in Piazza Teresa in Brindisi where you can buy unique items and antiques at low prices.

IN Acquarica del Capo one of the best markets is located, where beautiful products made from straw, bamboo and other materials are sold.

IN Madonna del Ponte During the festival in September, a huge market opens where you can buy local products and souvenirs.

Cuisine of Puglia

The preparation of traditional dishes in the Puglia region almost always involves three elements - durum wheat, vegetables and, one of the best in the world, olive oil. Pasta dishes are an important part of every local table. "Orecchiette", translated as "little ear" and a traditional homemade pasta of the region, is prepared with turnips. This region is home to olive groves that are among the oldest in the world. For this reason, unsurpassed olive oil is produced here.

Fish is especially popular in this region, mussels from Taranto considered the best in all of Italy. Both burata and juicy have no equal mozzarella from Andria. The ancient traditions of cheese making in Puglia are carefully preserved. And the most demanding taste will certainly be satisfied with Mediterranean desserts, which are often based on dried fruits, syrup and honey. Many fine wines are produced in this region.

Puglia Hotels

Tourists in Puglia will not have problems with accommodation. There are many wonderful hotels in Puglia ready to provide their services at any time.

Here you can .

Resorts and beaches of Puglia

The town of Vieste attracts tourists with its sunny resorts and the beauty of the coastline, consisting of many arches and grottoes carved by the sea waters into limestone rocks.

Another resort boasts picturesque landscapes and rocky bays - Marina di Andrano.

At the Cape Santa Maria di Leuca The Ionian and Adriatic seas meet. There are beautiful grottoes here that once served as a refuge for Byzantine monks.

Gallipoli is famous for its snow-white beaches and clear sea. Sailing competitions are also held here.

The resort boasts thermal baths, natural beauty and golden beaches Margherita di Savoia.

The most interesting diving spots are located near the coast of Neretina. The resort has been famous since ancient times for its sulfur waters. Santa Cesaria Terme.

Tours to Puglia

You can book a tour to Puglia inexpensively on our portal, we also have a catalog of last-minute tours. Holidays in Puglia are something unforgettable!!!

Book a tour to Puglia - give your family a truly heavenly pleasure!!!

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You can book a tour to Calabria inexpensively on our portal, we also have a catalog of last-minute tours. Holidays in Calabria are something unforgettable!!! - See more at:

Excursions, activities and attractions of Puglia

One of the favorite attractions of tourists is the traditional Trulli houses from Alberobello.

Old town in Bari, romantic Basilica of St. Nicholas, Gothic Cathedral of St. Sabino, Church of St. George, Fort St. Antonio, Castel del Monte, Ducal Palace in the ancient city of Martina Franca, stunning landscapes of the city Ostuni- these are just a small part of the attractions that tourists coming to Puglia must visit.

A special place is occupied Karst caves of Castellana, with a length of more than 3000 meters. This natural attraction is one of the most visited in Southern Italy.

Events

In a palace Pallazo Ducale, located in the city of Martina Franca, an opera festival is held every summer. In Bari, in honor of the patron saint of the city, St. Nicholas, grandiose holidays are held from May 6 to 8.

These days, pilgrims from all over the world flock to the city. Fireworks displays are held here, shows are held, and historical reconstructions are staged.

Puglia video. Part 1

Puglia video. Part 2

If someone tells you that (Puglia) is comparable in beauty to Tuscany, and the city Lecce(Lecce) this is southern Florence: kill the one who says this, and fry his liver with thyme and rosemary and eat it, because it is a lie, f... and provocation.

Terre di Puglia, Apulia is a part of Italy, which is located in the southeast of the Apennine Peninsula, popularly called the “Italian boot” and there is a necessary part of it - a heel with a spur.
According to Wikipedia, this region of Italy ranks first in winemaking and olive oil production.

I readily believe this: the vineyards and olive plantings in the region are constantly an eyesore.
But nevertheless, on the roads of Puglia you will not find tasty and welcome signs Vino Testing, Oil Vende.
These places are hidden from prying eyes, the eyes of tourists, and therefore one has to be content with visiting wine shops in villages and small towns.

The landscapes here are sad and dull: a plain planted with cultivated plantings of trees or shrubs.
The plain is plowed and planted with wheat.
The plain is cut by low fences made of stacked stones, as well as some ruins of the same cobblestones.

Small towns and villages here are dull and sad: identical boxes with flat roofs, made of foam concrete and plastered in pastel colors.
The streets are rectangular and in general the whole thing is very reminiscent of some Kolpino or Kapotnya with standard houses cut down to the second floor.

People here speak Italian, but they understand few jokes and make contact.
The proximity to Albania, it seems to me, has influenced this part of Italy, so that I suspect a potential Albanian in every resident of Puglia I meet.

The food here is not interesting at all. Moreover, I want to say that in this area of ​​​​Italy the Italians became Albanians and forgot how to cook.
Local gastronomic specialties are based on breads: these are bagels and pasta with huge holes into which you can stick... your fingers, as well as pasta reminiscent of our “ears”.

Apparently all the fish were caught, since in restaurants local fish costs from 70 euros per kilo, the octopuses here are prepared in such a way that it is better to immediately throw them into the handbag hanging behind the next chair. Puréed peas plus stewed greens reminiscent of roadside weeds – these are all gastronomic specialties of Puglia.

What kind of seafood is more or less represented: clams and mussels, the fishing for which is established and there is even a small flotilla of ships that deliver fresh food to restaurants.

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Primitivo wine is the most famous and I can say that I like it.
At least I like something about Puglia. Any red. Take it and drink it - you can’t go wrong: in terms of richness and softness, it reminds me of my recent experience in Georgia with Kinzmarauli.
The color is dark ruby, it is easy to drink and goes well with cheeses and soft cottage cheese, which is also produced here.
White Chardonnay is more noble than classic Chardonnay, which I’m simply afraid to drink because of the floral and fruity aftertaste (for example, in Australia, Chardonnay can only be used for the production of moonshine).

An interesting serving of wine in Puglia: here, when asked for a liter of “casa wine”, a bottle is placed on the table.
Well, I didn’t find homemade wine here in jugs, but we already have a set dose for dinner - 1 liter.
You have to take 2 bottles and take the unfinished one with you.

What else can I add about Puglia?

Probably worth writing about beaches in this region since the local coastline is the longest of all regions of Italy.
As you yourself probably know: quantity (in this case length) does not always translate into quality.
I can say that the sandy beaches I have seen are something of a waste, which of course will be removed with a rake for the season and a price tag will be set for a sunbed and umbrella per day.
In the first two days there was bad weather in this region: it rained and stormed, and therefore I could not and will not be able to convey a correct review of the beaches and the sea, but you can see what I saw in the photo below

The water is icy. At night the wind is +12 during the day - in general, in May it is quiet and deserted here - the beach hotels are closed, and who would even think of staying in a beach hotel in Puglia at the end of May (although I swam on the Amalfi coast of Italy on the May holidays)

But if you are still planning to come to these parts to relax by the sea, I would advise...
I won't recommend anything.

A little about the cities?
Not much at all, since I avoid cities - they make me sad and I can only use them as a place for shopping ( about shopping in Bari I wrote in a separate article:) or an emergency overnight stay when all restaurants in rural areas are closed.

In the historical center Bari It's nice to take a walk late in the evening - when the buses have already taken away the Korean tourists, and the Albanians have gone to work in their parts of this port city. Narrow streets along which it is pleasant to wander and even, dare I say it, to inhale the scent of the laundry perfume that is being dried according to the ancient Albanian tradition - under a film from dust, or rather from rain.

Trulli(trulli) in Alberobello- these are traditional dwellings that were built not by trolls, but by completely law-abiding Italians.
These dwellings have a clear and recognizable conical roof as well as walls made of uneven cobblestones.
The walls are thick, whitewashed on the outside - so in summer these dwellings are cool. But in the cold season, you will need good heating to warm such a pencil.

Why am I writing about this so confidently?
Yes, because yesterday we lived in such a house. I can recommend the hotel - a very good owner, who, without my asking, added me to his friends on Facebook as soon as he saw my passport.

If you did not like this article, share the link to it with your friends on social networks - perhaps they have a different opinion. Buttons below.

From school we remember that Italy, with its outlines, looks like a real boot. At its “heel” and “spur” is the region of Apulia. It has many characteristic features that distinguish Italy from other countries of the world, and at the same time pleasantly surprises with features that can only be seen here.

Geographical position

Immediately on the shores of two seas - the Ionian and Adriatic - lies the long and relatively narrow region of Apulia.

Italy “gave” it its easternmost tip. The world map clearly demonstrates that this region is very close to Albania, which is only 80 kilometers away. Greece is also nearby. Passenger ferries regularly run from Bari to Patras, Greece. The journey takes about 15 hours, depending on the class of the ship. In addition, from Bari you can sail to the islands of Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Igoumenitsa, and Corfu. The city has a modern international airport, which also operates local flights from Rome and Milan. You can get to the capital of Puglia by train, bus (from Rome) or car.

Nature of the region

Not everyone likes the monotonous landscapes that characterize Puglia. Reviews from tourists are sometimes full of such epithets as “boring”, “dull”. Indeed, when you drive along the highway, both on the left and on the right, your gaze continually comes across cultivated squares of land and well-groomed olive groves.

There are practically no mountains here, just plains (53% of the territory) and low, gentle hills. The highest point in the region is the Cornacchia peak (1152 meters). But the coastline delights with picturesque, sometimes bizarrely shaped grottoes, cozy bays, and unusual arches created by nature in the rocks. Most of the land is occupied by vineyards, and Apulia is the first country in the country to produce wine and olive oil. Italy is famous throughout the world for these two products thanks to this hardworking region. In addition to agriculture, industrial production is also developed here. There are especially many businesses in Bari and Taranto.

Weather

Among other regions of the country, Apulia has the longest coastline. Italy is famous throughout the world for its wonderful beaches, and its eastern region is no exception. However, weather conditions suitable for a beach holiday exist here only in the summer months.

In Sicily you can swim in December. But in Puglia, even in May the water is quite cool. In summer, the air temperature stays at +28-32 degrees, and in winter it drops to +6. September is still quite warm, but from October to March there are frequent storms at sea, which should be taken into account by those wishing to travel by ferry. There is little rain in Puglia, mainly from the second half of autumn. Showers are usually heavy but short-lived. At the end of them, the sun comes out again, and the weather is quite favorable for exciting excursion walks. In general, the word “Apulia” means “land without rain”. This name was first applied to the region by Emperor Augustus.

A little history

Puglia is famous for its glorious centuries-old history. Over the thousands of years of its existence, Italy has known both dawn and decline. The same can be said about Puglia. The ancient Greek historians Herodotus wrote about it and only called it Iapygia in honor of the son of the mythical Daedalus. His name was Iapyg.

According to legend, he went to look for new lands, saw a wonderful coast, landed and founded a settlement there. The Illyrians moved there next. Their leader was Barion, who further upset the city. Some historians believe that this is where the name Bari comes from. Later this place was occupied by the ancient and famous Trojans. The Trojan route once passed through Apulia. A long time ago the entire coast belonged to Greece. Then it was conquered by the Normans, Byzantines, and Romans. Each of the conquerors contributed to the appearance of the region. As a result, today's Apulia looks quite peculiar. Reviews from lovers of ancient architecture are mostly similar - in the region you can find traces of all the cultures that existed here.

Capital

Bari is the second most important city (after Naples), famous for its port and the Basilica of St. Nicholas. He was a priest in the Greek city of Myra, where he died in the 4th century.

According to legends, after his burial several miraculous healings inexplicable by science occurred (hence Nicholas the Wonderworker). Thousands of pilgrims flocked to the city. But at the beginning of the 11th century, the relics were stolen and secretly taken to Bari. A crypt was built specifically for storing them. Now this city, and with it Apulia, is famous for this artifact. Tours here can be booked not only during the beach season, but also in winter to get to the famous one (December 6). Bari is beautiful at any time of the year. It is divided into new and old parts. For tourists, the greatest interest is the old one, where there are 29 churches and basilicas. The new part is no less beautiful. There are many fountains, surrounded by flowers of squares, museums, theaters and shops for every taste and budget.

Fairytale city of trolls

It is impossible to come to Puglia without visiting the famous Alberobello. This small town is famous for its unusual houses, similar to the dwellings of trolls. These architectural creations are called “trulli”.

They have domed roofs made of flat stones. Once upon a time, trulli were built to avoid paying taxes, because such a dwelling was not considered a home. Now they are protected by UNESCO, and Apulia earns a tidy sum every year. Reviews from tourists, who are plentiful here both in winter and in summer, are always enthusiastic about these unusual houses. Recently, the city mayor's office relocated the bulk of the residents to standard houses. But the trulli are still inhabited. Moreover, Alberobello has shops, restaurants and even a trulli church. And some residents have organized their own business based on such unusual architecture, that is, for a small fee they invite you into their house and show you how it works from the inside.

Rock City

Another interesting place worth a look is the city of Matera, famous for its settlement carved into huge rocks. It is located far from the coast, on the border with another region - Basilicata, and has recently been geographically assigned to it.

However, the Apulians hope that Matera will return to them again; it is not for nothing that this name is translated as “my lands.” The area of ​​the rock settlements is called Sassi, which means “stones”. There are fascinating cave complexes of churches carved into the rocks here. Puglia, whose attractions include many religious buildings, attracts hundreds of tourists with these monumental antiquities. Arriving in Matera, you should definitely visit Convicinio di Santo Antonio, where you can enter through the amazing portal of four churches that are unlike one another. The church of San Giovanni and Santa Maria Idris are carved in the middle of the rock. In addition to these religious buildings, the Lanfranchi Palace, which now houses a museum, is of interest.

Gargano - boot spur

Mountains in Puglia occupy only 1.5% of the territory. And almost all of them are located in Gargano. It is thanks to her that Apulia can boast of extraordinary beauty of mountain landscapes. Reviews from tourists about this region are the most enthusiastic.

Particularly impressive are the relict giant trees, roe deer walking along forested mountain paths, blooming orchids in the meadows and mountain arches and rock fragments sticking out from the azure waters of the coastal line, looking like the teeth of fairy-tale monsters. Almost the entire territory of the Gargano is a national reserve. The famous resorts of Vieste, Mattinata, Peschici are located on its territory. Therefore, prices here are slightly higher than in other areas of Puglia, but Gargano is worth it.

The peninsula has several natural attractions. Tourists are always interested in two lakes with salt water. One of them is Lezina, the second is Varano. Both are separated from the sea by a narrow strip of land decorated with flowers and trees. Lovers of mysticism will certainly be attracted by three small beautiful islands lying about 20 km from Gargano. These are San Domino, Caprara and San Nicolo. They form an archipelago, in the central part of which rise the cliffs of Cretacio and La Vecchia. Local residents claim that one is haunted by the ghost of a prisoner who was executed, and the other by the ghost of a spinner.

Lecce - the second Florence

When talking about Puglia, it is impossible not to mention the small town of Lecce. There are so many architectural monuments and fragments of buildings made in the Baroque style that it is rightly called the second Florence.

The most famous building is the 15th-17th century Basilica of Santa Croce. Walking along the shady streets and looking at the extraordinary stone lace of ancient houses, it is impossible to find a similar ornament. Incredibly, they are all different. They say that the ancient architects poured milk over the stucco molding after finishing their work. Over the centuries, it acquired a golden hue, which is especially evident at sunset, and gave this corner a second name - the Golden City. That's how much interesting things Puglia has to offer its guests. Holidays here will undoubtedly appeal to both lovers of sea walks and connoisseurs of ancient masterpieces.

Sea and cuisine

No matter how interesting the sights are, in the summer we all go to the resort to enjoy the sea and sun. The beaches of Puglia are located almost along the entire coastline.

Salento is especially interesting in this regard, where you can simultaneously swim in the waters of two seas at once. It’s a great place to relax with children, as the entrance to the water is smooth and the sand is perfectly clean. In addition, the southernmost part of Puglia is located here, so you can swim in September. Excellent beaches await tourists in all resort areas of the region. Umbrellas and sunbeds on many of them are paid, but if you try, you can find a place where you won’t be driven away even with your towel. No holiday is complete without food. The cuisine of Puglia is famous for its fish dishes, delicious mussels, extraordinary cheeses, special bread and pasta, which are made by hand. You can also order creamy soup with peas, but this is not for everyone. Among the wines, Primitivo is especially popular. It doesn't have much of a name, but it tastes divine. “Salice-Salentino” and “Marina-Franca” also have excellent taste. In general, all the wines of Puglia are excellent. Gourmet restaurants here open in the evening, but you can always grab a bite of freshly made pizza.

Puglia Hotels

One of the most important problems when choosing a holiday destination is where to stay. There are no problems with this in Puglia. In almost every city, the doors of numerous hotels of all types are open to tourists. There are luxury apartments starting from 1,200 euros per night, and there are very inexpensive hostels, very suitable for undemanding tourists. The middle position is occupied by three-star hotels and villas. It makes sense to book a place many days in advance only in the summer months and during national holidays, such as in Bari. Usually, travel agencies can find a decent accommodation option, even if the desire to visit Puglia arose spontaneously.

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.

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’s hut and the house of the inhabitants of Oz. 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. In 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 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.

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 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.

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 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).

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.

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 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.

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.

The drivers and cashiers do not speak English, and the websites are also only available in Italian. There are a great variety 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, 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.

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.
• 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

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 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”.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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 landscapes.

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 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.

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.

Matera

Matera is another city of Puglia 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 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.

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

Since ancient Rome, Brindisi has been considered Italy's Gateway to the East. Due to its advantageous position, Brindisi has been an important fort and commercial 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 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.

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 outlines 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.

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.

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

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.

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.