Sights/sites between "mare adriatico" and "mare ionio"

Blending of influences from Occident and Orient

On clear days, when you can see as far as the coast of Albania, you understand why, for centuries, Apulia has been called the gate to the east.

The area bears unique testimony to history: from Castel del Monte, a fortress built by Hohenstaufen emperor Frederick II, and the famous trulli in Valle d'Itria to the Baroque town of Lecce. They are proof of how influences from Occident and Orient have blended into a manifold and unique culture.

Granary and important trading center

From the 8th century BC on, the Messapians settled in the area. The Romans made the region the granary of their empire and built important trading centers, such as the harbor of Brundisium (today's Brindisi), which was connected with the capital city of Rome by the Via Appia.

Under the rule of the Hohenstaufen, Apulia experienced its second period of prosperity. Frederick II could not withstand the charm of the region and built several hunting lodges, where the German emperor loved to spend time.

The capital of Bari also became very prosperous in the Middle Ages, which is still reflected in its wonderful Old Town today. Lecce is the most significant town of the Salento. Given the Southern Italian Baroque style characterizing its center, it is also called the "Florence of the South".

The most important cultural sights/sites in Apulia:

- Bari
- Castel del Monte
- Polignano a Mare
- Egnazia
- Alberobello
- Cisternino
- Gallipoli
- Lecce
- Otranto
- Taranto

Untouched nature and wide beaches - scenic sights in Apulia

Apulia, this land between two worlds, caters for all tastes. The region is a great holiday destination for both those interested in culture and history and those who want to enjoy relaxing beach holidays. Every year, numerous beaches in the area are allowed to fly the "Bandiera Blu", the Blue Flag for excellent water quality.

The steep coast near Santa Maria di Leuca at the southeastern-most tip of Italy and nature park Porto Selvaggio in the southwest offer spectacles of nature which are second to none.

Interesting sights of the Apulian landscape:

- Parco Nazionale Alta Murgia
- Grotte di Castellana
- Parco Regionale delle Dune Costiere
- Torre Guaceto
- Porto Selvaggio
- Grottos of Santa Maria di Leuca

Culture and tradition in Apulia - Joie de vivre 'accompanied' by music and pasta

The joie de vivre of the pugliesi is expressed in the sweeping rhythms of the "tarantella", the traditional music of the area, and is sure to 'infect' you, too.

The culinary delights of the region, of which there are plenty, must not be disregarded either. Attempting to enumerate all the tasty delicacies would, however, be hopelessly foolhardy. At this point, let mention be made only of the famous orecchiette, pasta which is still made by hand in many places today and is served with delicious sughi.