The “trulli” face of Puglia: Alberobello

Anyone who has read anything about Puglia will no doubt be familiar with the existence of the conical-roofed dwellings that pepper the Itria Valley countryside. These distinctive cylindrical constructions are unique to the area and make up the entire town of Alberobello, which has to be the undisputed trulli capital of the world.

Alberobello is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some 1,400 magical trulli houses nestled within the sloping, winding streets of the charming old town including a trullo-church and the Trullo Sovrano, which is the only two-storey trullo you’ll come across. Constructed from thicklimestone blocks, legend has it that the trulli were built without cement or mortar as a way of avoiding property taxes so when the tax collectors were on their way around Southern Italy, the locals would simply dismantle their houses and carry on as usual!

Many of the trulli are open to visitors and feature exhibits, tools, and examples of local tradition and while we’re not particularly keen on the trinkets sold and the droves of tourist groups, you simply cannot leave Puglia without seeing Alberobello

Trulli Houses

And no trip to Itria Valley is complete without some wine tasting.

Located between the whitewashed towns of Alberobello, Locorotondo and Martina Franca, the vineyards are famous for their production of white grapes including indigenous varieties of Verdeca, Bianco d’Alessano and Fiano Minutolo, their unique taste a result of the hot summer weather an asteadily northerly wind. By preserving traditional winegrowing traditions in the vineyards and fusing them with modern winemaking techniques in the cellars, their wines represent an evolved method of local viticulture.

You’ll start with a guided tour through the vineyards and across the traditional farm with its collection of ancient original trulli and beautiful panoramic views where you’ll find out about how wines are grown, harvested, and bottled before taking part in a tasting session. Enjoysavouring the flavours of the winery’s local wines alongside a taste of some typical nibbles including bagels, olives, and dried beans.

Wine Tasting

For the amazing food of Puglia, do check out La Dolce Cucina of Puglia. And if you’re convinced, join us on our Dolce Vita Experience.

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