And it is washed by the waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Also, it has the longest coastline across all continental regions of the country. Flat landscapes prevail here, and the rivers Fortore and Brandano act as land borders. The highest mountain peaks are Monty Downey and Calve, whose height exceeds 1000 meters above sea level.

Peculiarities

According to its geographical structure, the region is divided into 6 provinces and several historical regions. Each province has its own capital and a number of cities. In Puglia, oil refining, metallurgy, engineering, as well as clothing, textile and rubber industry. Particular attention is paid to winemaking, which has long been a leader in the state in this area. Tourism also brings significant income to the regional treasury. The local cities, which have a rich historical heritage, are of regular interest among travel lovers. In the province of Taranto is the 2nd largest naval port in Italy, which is a confirmation of the serious status of the region as one of the important centers of the defensive complex. There are many excellent beach resorts in Puglia, which are distinguished by a well-established tourist infrastructure and convenient transport links.

general information

The territory of the region covers an area of ​​just over 19,300 square meters. km, with a population of about 4,000,000 people. The number of communes is 258. The local time behind Moscow by 1 hour in summer and 2 in winter. Time zone UTC +1 and UTC +2 in summer. Official website www.regione.puglia.it.

A brief excursion into history

Initially, the lands of Apulia were inhabited by Messapians, Davnas, Trojans and Greeks. With the advent of our era, the Romans came here, subsequently laying the Appian and Trajan roads here. During the Second Punic War, the region went over to the side of Hannibal, who defeated the Romans shortly before that, at the Battle of Cannae. Some time later, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, Apulia was turned into a province. In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the cultural and educational level in the region increased sharply, and many unique architectural structures appeared. Since then, the area has been considered one of the most developed and progressive in Italy, continuing to grow in different directions.

Climate

Puglia has a pronounced Mediterranean climate. The average air temperature in the winter months is +6 - +8 degrees, and in summer it regularly exceeds +30. Precipitation predominantly falls from November to March, while April to October is generally dry and very warm. On the coast, bathing season starts in May and ends in October.

How to get there

Main international Airport The region is located in Bari. It accepts flights from many countries of the world, including from Russia and the CIS. Another major international airport is located in Brindisi, but it mainly serves flights from the UK and Switzerland.

Transport

All regional districts and provincial capitals are interconnected by bus and railway communication. From Bari and Brindisi it is possible to take ferries to Greek islands. In cities, buses and minibuses are the most common transport. Even in the smallest settlements, you can rent a car or a bicycle, not to mention taxi services.

Major cities

The capital of Puglia is a port city that has a long history, which was largely influenced by the reign of the ancient Greeks and then the Romans. About 96% of local residents are Italians, while the average age is quite young - only 42 years old. The city has the status of the most important economic and cultural center area, where there is a whole scattering of architectural monuments related to historical heritage Italy. In addition to Bari, the largest cities in the region are Avetrana, nicknamed none other than the "Florence of Apulia" because of the abundance of monuments made in the Baroque style, founded in the Spartan era, and having an area of ​​\u200b\u200ba large metropolis and occupying an area of ​​​​more than 500 square meters. km. All these cities have their own attractive features and are of considerable interest to tourists.

Main resorts

most popular beach resort Puglia is considered Marina di Andrano, in the province of Lecce. Here, the gaze of vacationers opens up incredibly beautiful landscapes with majestic rocks and quiet bays, the water in which has a pronounced turquoise hue. The beaches of Zona Botte and Zona Grotta Verde, famous for their picturesque caves, are especially famous here. In the place where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, in the same place, in the province of Lecce, there is the resort of Castrignano del Capo, in the mysterious grottoes of which, at one time, Byzantine monks hid from persecution. Another colorful place to stay is Galliano del Capo, not far from Castrignano del Capo. No less striking is Porto Cesareo, famous for its karst caves and excellent conditions for diving. Gallipoli, in the province of Foggia, is recommended for families. In addition, international sailing competitions are regularly held here. In the province of Barletta-Andria-Trani, the resort of Margherita di Savoia stands out, with its unearthly landscapes and healing thermal springs. Of course, among connoisseurs bright sun and transparent sea waters, the Monopoly coast is a success, as well as the coastline of Polignano a Mare, belonging to the province of Bari. In Brindisi, the most attractive resort is Ostuni, with wide beaches and beautiful natural landscapes. Those wishing to experience the healing properties of thermal waters are recommended to Santa Cesaria Terme, which has long been famous for its sulfur springs. The beaches of the region have both sand and pebbles, so before traveling to any other resort, this information should be clarified separately.

Attractions and entertainment

In addition to such large cities as, and Brindisi, where the main historical and cultural monuments of the past are located, Puglia has other interesting places. Among them, unique old town Alberobello, famous for its whimsical cone-roofed houses called "trulli", a system karst caves in Castellana Grotta, the medieval castle of Castel del Monte, 16 km from Andria, the ancient city of Martina Franca, surrounded by fortified walls and fabulous village Ostuni, with red earth and silvery olive trees. These sights are only a small part of the rich variety of beauties and wonders that the Puglia region is full of. Among the most significant holidays celebrated on its territory, the annual summer opera festival, held in Martina Franca, and the grandiose events in honor of St. Nicholas Day, in the city of Bari, taking place there in early May, stand out.

Kitchen

Olive oil, vegetables and durum wheat are considered the main culinary components of the dishes in the region. Of the most famous culinary creations, the orecchiette pasta, the terracotta pot "Tiella" seasoned with rice, potatoes and mussels, and the seafood saute called "Ciambotto" stand out. Red wines include Primitivo di Manduria and Salice Salentino. Of the whites, Martina-Franka and Locorotondo are the most authoritative. As in any part of the country, special attention is paid here to ice cream and various other desserts.

shopping

The most successful cities for shopping in Puglia are the shops of Bari, the Alberobello craft markets that open in August, the antiques market in Gallipoli, which operates every first Sunday of the month and the monthly large market in Brindisi, where you can buy completely unique items at low prices. The same applies to Madonna del Ponte, where the market opens in the month of September, when the city hosts a major festival. In almost any locality area there are souvenir shops and shops with goods High Quality, so shoppers don't usually leave disappointed.

Puglia is one of the most colorful tourist destinations in . It is unlikely that she can argue in popularity with the northern part of the country or Sicily, but, nevertheless, this region can also offer its guests a lot of entertainment for every taste, including excellent wide beaches, beautiful natural landscapes and a whole place of historical sites of great interest to true travel lovers.

Puglia, known in Italy as Puglia, is a region located in southern Italy. If you look at the map, then Puglia will be the heel of the "Italian boot".

More recently, Puglia (Puglia - Italian) was a completely non-tourist place in Italy, more beautiful holiday in this region: the local flavor and originality are much brighter here than in the same Rome or Milan.

Puglia on the map of Italy

What is interesting about Puglia?

What is Puglia famous for in the first place? Cute baroque towns, traditional local houses (the locals call them trulli), which look like a cross between a hobbit hut and a 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.

Sandy beach in Polignano, Apulia, Italy

And by the way, the sea is not alone. On the left, Puglia is washed by the Ionian Sea, and on the right, by the Adriatic. Although they are part of the Mediterranean, the rest here is somewhat different. In the hottest months, when the Mediterranean resorts are ringingly hot, there is always a light breeze in Puglia.

Salento, Puglia, Italy.

Puglia is a predominantly rural area, whose inhabitants have made their living from agriculture since the time of the ancient Greek colonies. The scale of fruit and olive plantations is amazing 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

Of 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 tourist boom, Apulia has a lot of options for a comfortable stay - 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 living in a masseria, the owners offer Additional services, such as spa treatments at local thermal springs, of which there are countless, or cooking classes.

Cooking class at one of the Masseria 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 Wojtyla. It has regular flights from many European countries. Often in the summer there are charter programs with direct flights from Russian tour operators and carriers (though, basically, such programs are offered from Moscow).

Airport in Bari, Apulia, Italy

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

Bari Airport metro station, Apulia, Italy

Another way to get to Bari is by high-speed trains from Rome, Milan and other major cities with regular flights to Russia. For example, a trip from Rome will take about 2 hours, from Milan - 8 hours. Transportation is carried out by the national carrier of Italy Trenitalia, you can find out more about the routes of the railway connection with Puglia.

High speed train Trenitalia, Puglia, Italy

There is also a ferry service between Bari and other Adriatic ports 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 part of the Schengen countries.

Passenger ferry in the port of Bari, Puglia, Italy

For the sake of justice, it must be said that Puglia 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.

Intercity buses in Italy

The drivers and cashiers do not speak English, and the websites are only available in Italian. There are a lot of route options, often you need to make a transfer. The schedule is observed 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 Puglia

Puglia has a typical Mediterranean climate. Winters here are quite cool and windy. From December to February, storms and hurricane-force winds are not uncommon. The best time for visits to Puglia - from May to October. Moreover, for a beach holiday, the period from mid-June to mid-September is suitable - it is at this time that the water temperature is kept at a comfortable 23-25 ​​degrees.

Winter sunset in Puglia, Italy

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

Summer day in Pergola, Puglia, Italy

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 the flat terrain. There are no mountains in Puglia, so even in the hottest months a light breeze blows here.

Typical landscape of Puglia, Italy

Transport in Puglia

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

The requirements are standard: you must be over 21 years old, you must have an international driver's license and a plastic card of any bank to issue a deposit. A list of car rental companies with offices at Bari Airport can be viewed.

Antique car rental in Puglia, Italy

Also, many rental offices offer additional services such as free road guides, navigators, child seats and the like.

Car rental in Italy

If you have booked a vacation in a small remote town or countryside, you simply need to have a car, as transport connection in Puglia, as in other provincial regions of Italy, it is not very well developed.

In addition, having a car will give you some freedom in traveling around the region, as the landscapes of Puglia deserve a short trip along the coast and inland.

Car rental in Italy

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

Local railway lines in Puglia, Italy

• The schedule of such trains is a little "lame", but the pleasure of the trip compensates you for these inconveniences. A site where you can see routes and timetables can be found, however, all information is presented only in Italian
• In the relatively large cities of Puglia, there is urban transport, mainly buses. Tickets are sold at tobacconists (shops with a Tabacchi sign or just the letter "T"). Sometimes a ticket can be bought directly from the driver
• Many residents and visitors of the region prefer to move around the cities by bicycle. Large and small rental offices can be found in any city, the price compared to renting a car is quite acceptable, and the distances are quite short

Bicycle rental in Puglia, Italy

Features of rest in Puglia

Since Puglia as a tourist region has only recently begun to develop, there are several points that should be taken into account when organizing a trip.

• Here, of course, there are no Russian-speaking employees in hotels, restaurants and museums. Moreover, only a few speak English. It is definitely worth taking an Italian phrase book with you if you are not sure that you can speak well enough “on your fingers”

To travel to Puglia you need an Italian phrasebook

• Shops, banks, tourist offices, rental offices and other establishments work here according to their own schedule, which is not too focused on tourists. Here you are unlikely to find night buses or 24-hour supermarkets and money changers.
• In small villages and towns, such infrastructure may be partially absent altogether. Therefore, survey the area in advance for the most important establishments for you and study their schedule so as not to get into a mess.

Street selling pasta in Bari, Italy

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

Street gatherings in Bari, Apulia, Italy

• Italians are not too punctual and obligatory. Here, being late for 30-40 minutes, 5-10 minutes is perceived as the norm and is not at all considered late. Shops and banks may not open and close exactly at the specified time, buses and trains may be slightly behind schedule
• AT small towns the bus driver may, at his discretion, slightly change, or even cancel the route if it seems to him that there are not enough passengers and the trip is unprofitable

Private pizzeria in Puglia, Italy

• In contrast to the inhabitants accustomed to everything, traditionally tourist spots(Rome, Milan, Venice) The inhabitants of Puglia are quite conservative, patriarchal and devout. They are simple and friendly in communication exactly as long as you keep up appearances (in their understanding)
• If you have shown disrespect in something, you can be quite emotionally scolded or publicly discuss your “inappropriate” act.

Resident of Bari, Apulia, Italy

• Italians - especially southerners - are not particularly courteous. Here it is considered the norm to show their emotions as they are. Unlike northern Europe, here you will not be smiled out of politeness, they may not answer questions like “how to get to the library”, or be rude if you did 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, Puglia, Italy

The 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 gentle, the bottom is clean sand, and the water is particularly transparent.

Sandy beach in Marina di Andrano, Puglia, Italy

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

Coast near Marina di Andrano, Apulia, Italy

The center of the resort is Andrano, a large city by local standards. The main architectural masterpieces of the city are 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 the most beautiful towns Southern Italy, founded by the ancient Greeks.

Despite its small size, there are quite a few sights of the most 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 city Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

The city is suitable for a quiet leisurely vacation. 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.

Port of Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

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

Sandy beaches near Gallipoli, Apulia, Italy

Galliano del Capo

Holidays in Galliano del Capo are suitable primarily for lovers of long walks and beautiful landscapes. The main attractions here are the rocky coast, which fascinates with its views, olive groves descending to the sea in terraces, rocky paths along the coast and many historical monuments scattered around the neighborhood.

Coast near Galliano del Capo, Apulia, Italy

Recently, the regional government adopted a program to restore historically significant sites. 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 near Galliano del Capo, Apulia, Italy

Margherita di Savoia

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

Beaches in Margherita di Savoia, Apulia, Italy

Local thermae can offer a wellness 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.

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

Mineral baths in Margherita di Savoia, Apulia, Italy

In addition to the thermal baths, Margherita di Savoia boasts unique architectural structures(mainly churches) and the only salt museum in the world that contains the entire history of mining, processing and industrial use of saline deposits.

Sunset on the salt lakes of Margherita di Savoia

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 shore, and its many terraced streets descend to the sea, which gives a special beauty to the local landscapes.

Villa in Santa Cesaria Terme, Apulia, Italy

As a thermal spa, Santa Cesaria Terme began to develop 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 palazzios here. As a result of this popularity, today the city is a gem of architectural styles popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Thermal baths in Santa Cesaria Terme, Apulia, Italy

Alberobello

Alberobello is one of the most amazing places in Apulia. This city resembles a fabulous gnome village, 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 listed world heritage UNESCO. The houses are unique not only in appearance, but also in the peculiarity of the construction: they were all built without the use of cement or other bonding mortar. When erecting a trulli, the stones are stacked in such a way that if one stone is removed from the foundation, the whole house instantly collapses.

Trulli houses in Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

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

Trulli hotel in Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

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 runaway Byzantine monks, who, along with dwellings, erected churches and monastic cells in the caves.

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

Basically, the houses in the caves were built by the poor for reasons of cost savings and building material: in fact, these are kind of slums that have 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 the caves to modern quarters, since the sanitary conditions of these dwellings had long ceased to meet modern standards.

Rocky slums of Matera, Puglia, Italy

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

Hotel in Matera, Apulia, Italy

Lecce

Lecce is the capital of the eponymous region of Puglia, a city unique in its beauty. Most of the houses here are built from the local lecchizu limestone, 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 the background of other cities with its unique beauty and grandeur of buildings.

Lecce, Apulia, Italy

In addition, "lecchisa" 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 do not leave the illusion that all the houses were built of pure gold.

Most of the buildings belong to the Baroque period. Also in lecho you can find numerous buildings of earlier times, starting from ancient times.

Street in Lecce, Puglia, Italy

Brindisi

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

Old town of Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Among the numerous historical buildings, one 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 palazzios.

Panorama of Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Of the modern buildings, one can note the Monument to the Italian sailor - a very controversial building, but definitely memorable for all visitors.

Monument to the Italian sailor in Brindisi, Apulia, Italy

Bari and its attractions

Bari is the second most important city in southern Italy after Naples. Historically, its significance is due to the fact that it was an important strategic point of Via Traiana - 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. During its long history, Bari has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt again.

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

Street in Bari, Puglia, Italy

All the administrative centers of the province, the main universities and government agencies, the largest trade and passenger terminals (both sea and rail) 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 of all children and travelers, are kept.

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

Basilica of Saint Nicholas

The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is an important religious center not only in Puglia, but throughout Italy. It has been operating 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 Saint Nicholas in Bari, Puglia, Italy

bari castle

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

Old city

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

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

Street in the old town of Bari, Puglia, Italy

Pinacoteca Bari

The Pinacoteca is the largest museum of fine arts in Southern Italy. The exposition of the museum includes a wide variety of paintings, ranging from the ancient period to the painting of the XIX century. Mostly works by local artists are presented here, as well as samples found during excavations in the Puglia region.

Pinacoteca Bari, Apulia, Italy

Petruzzelli Theater

The Petruzzelli Theater 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 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 Venice

Via Venezia is pedestrianized street, which was laid over the walls of the Old Town, demolished by decree of the Napoleonic governor of Bari, Gioacchino Murat. The street is laid on some elevation compared to the rest of the buildings, so it offers magnificent views of the Old Town and the port.

Corso Vittorio Emmanuele

Corso Vittorio Emanuele Avenue 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.

Via Corso Vittorio Emmanuele in Bari, Puglia, Italy

Theater Margarita

The Margarita Theater is located in the New Town and is best known for being built right on the water on special piles. At different times, various performances were held here - from musical shows to classical theatrical 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 City. Initially, it was built as a residential building for the Fizzarotti family. Currently interior spaces The palaces are available for inspection, often the palace is used as a venue for various cultural events.

Fizzarotti Palace in Bari, Puglia, Italy

Castle of Castel del Monte

The most popular attraction in the vicinity of Bari is Castell del Monte, built in the 13th century by Frederick the Great.

Castle of Castel del Monte near Bari, Apulia, Italy

In addition to the listed attractions in Bari, you can find many churches of various eras, parks and squares, numerous villas and palazzos of the Apulian aristocracy, many historical expositions, theaters and exhibitions. Those who want to get the most full information about the city and its attractions will find full list 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, then the main shopping centers and the jetties are, of course, located in the provincial capital of Bari. The main shopping street here is called Sparano di Bari and it is real paradise for shopaholics of all stripes, since it is here that all the main boutiques and branded stores of the most famous Italian and European brands from luxury to economy class lines are concentrated.

Shops on Via Sparano di Bari, Apulia, Italy

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

Puglia Outlet Village, Apulia, Italy

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

Flea market in Puglia, Italy

Apulian cuisine

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

Apulian Cuisine, Italy

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

Orecchiette pasta with broccoli, Apulia, Italy

Pasta Cavatelli- also a kind of pasta, which are more like flattened shells. Served with stewed vegetables and seafood in a variety of combinations.

Pasta Cavatelli with shrimps, Apulia, 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 prosquito - ham pies, panzerotti al accuja - anchovy pies, and so on. Such pies are fried in vegetable oil and look like a cross between juicy and chebureks.

Sweet panzerotti, Apulia, Italy

Octopus- This is the most common seafood ingredient. There are a lot of octopus dishes here. The simplest is an octopus baked with potatoes in a pot (according to the recipe and appearance, it is the same as the Russian rabbit dish with potatoes).

Octopus stewed with potatoes, Apulia, Italy

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

Pasticiotti, Apulia, Italy

The most popular of the wines primitively(young red tart wine) and aleatico(sweet dessert wine).

Young wine "primitivo", Apulia, Italy

The best gastronomic establishments in terms of local color and adherence to recipes are masseria - rural hotels and restaurants, something like local estates.

Preparing a traditional lunch in Masseria, Apulia, Italy

As a rule, a masseria has a shop where you can buy products grown in 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

Puglia is a charming region of Italy, stretching along the sea, delighting every traveler with its incredible beauty. “The heel of the Italian boot” is how the Italians affectionately call the region.

Indeed, if you look closely at the map of Italy, Puglia in its shape resembles the heel of a boot with a spur.

Puglia location on italy map

In Italy, the Puglia region is the most eastern of all. The coast of Puglia is the longest on the mainland of the country, washed by two seas - the Adriatic and the Ionian. In the south of the region, the Salento peninsula forms the so-called "heel of Italy's shoe". The region is located predominantly in a flat area. On the territory of Puglia there are two large natural national parks at once - Murgia and Gargano.

Nature is the main attraction of the province, capable of falling in love with even the most fastidious critic. Everything in this region is filled with sun, sea, love and... wine!

The question of what to see in Puglia will obviously not arise before tourists, the region is able to satisfy any tastes and interests.

The region imprinted on itself the imprint of the Middle Ages and the Baroque era, retaining many architectural monuments, artistic creations and a peculiar way of life.

Attractions

Puglia in Italy differs from other regions in its sights.
In Italy, the cities of Puglia are among the most visited by tourists who are interested in the architecture and history of the country:

1. Andria– traveling around Puglia, you should definitely visit this wonderful city, which is the center of olive and almond cultivation in the region. The best wines in Puglia are grown on plantations located around the city. In the distant XIII century, Andria was the favorite residence of Frederick II. The most famous of the Italian castles, Castel del Monte in Puglia, was built by order of Frederick II, 15 km south of the historic city center.

   

   Castell del Monte in Andria

   In addition to Castel del Monte, Andria, we have a large number of attractions:

   • a 12th-century cathedral with a 7th-century crypt;
   • Doge's Palace;
   • Church of San Domenico (XIV century);
   • city ​​palace;
   • Church of Santa Maria di Porta Santa (XIII c);
   • Sanctuary of Santa Maria dei Miracoli (XVI century);
   • Church of St. Francis with a monastery (XII century);
   • Church of San Agostino, built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights.
2. San Giovanni Rotondo- a place of pilgrimage for Catholics. Once upon a time, the Catholic Saint Pio lived and died in it, whose relics are kept in the Capuchin monastery of Santa Maria delle Grazia. Not far from the city stretches national park Gargano, famous for its caves, salt lakes and wild forest.

   

   Gargano National Park near San Giovanni Rotondo

3. Alberobello- a city famous for its peculiar stone, white houses with sharp conical roofs - trulli. The architecture of the city that has survived to this day is so unique that the city was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
4. Bari is the capital of Apulia. After Bari is the second most important city in southern Italy. well known as a port and university city, as well as the city of St. Nicholas.
5. Lecce- the pearl of Puglia. Due to the rich variety of architectural monuments made in the Baroque style, the city received the nickname "South Florence" in Puglia. The city is also famous for its olives and wine, which you can try on special gastronomic tours.

You can admire the sights of Puglia and learn all the details about the region by watching the video:

beach holiday

It's no secret that in Puglia best beaches. Starting from the north of Puglia, the rocky promontory of Gargano stretches, admiring its coastal landscape: emerald hills give way to white cliffs, azure sea, golden sands and heavenly pebble coves.

Especially popular are the beaches around Rodi Gaganiko, Peschici and Vieste.

Heading south down the Adriatic, on the coast between Manfredonia and lively Bari, you will find a number of sandy and pebbly beaches, natural reserve Margherita di Savoia and some lovely cities like Trani with its fabulous cathedral right in front of the sea. Sandy beaches are a rarity for the region, you will find them in beautiful cities Polignano Mare and Monopoli, which are definitely worth a visit.



Sandy beaches of Monopoli

Continuing south towards Brindisi (one of the most important ports of Puglia), sandy beaches stretch Marina di Ostuni and fabulous nature reserve Torre Guaceto. The nature reserve is a true naturalist's paradise, with untouched forests, Mediterranean poppies and flocks of flamingos.

Separately, the best resorts of Puglia should be highlighted - Marina di Pescoluse, Torre dell'Orso, Polignano Mare, Margherita di Savoia and Gallipoli.

More about each resort:

sports recreation

The two seas of Puglia are ideal for sports holidays in the lap of nature. Fans of excitement will be able to enjoy the charming and mysterious atmosphere of the sea.

The crystal clear waters of Tremiti Island offer incredible views of the sea, lively coves, caves and deep sea beds populated by lush vegetation and a large population of fish.

Santa Maria di Leuca- one of the best places in Italy for scuba diving. Diving to a depth of 90 meters, you can watch amazing fish species and see sea flowers. Those who want to have fun above the water can windsurf or kite.

In Santa Maria di Leuca you can watch underwater inhabitants

But not only the sea provides resources for outdoor activities in the region. If you want to feel oneness with nature, be sure to start your acquaintance with it through a bike tour.

You don't need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy two-wheel travel.

In natural Gargano reserve There are great bike paths to get around. huge park in just a day.

Festivals

Many festivals, fairs and historical celebrations take place all year round in every part of Puglia.

Among them, the most famous are the Putignano carnival, the San Nicola festival in Bari and Disfida di Barletta.

And no one should miss night of Taranta on Melpiggianano, festival of pizza and tarantella dances, which every August delight visitors from all over Europe, making them sing and dance along with the locals to the sound of a tambourine under the moonlight.

Features of local cuisine

Apulian cuisine has never been distinguished by intricate recipes and was based on simple ingredients. However, it is able to satisfy every taste. Its main elements are durum wheat, vegetables and olive oil, combined with meat and fish.

In Puglia you will enjoy delicious Italian dishes

A distinctive feature of the cuisine is homemade pasta made from durum wheat varieties or mixtures of different varieties. The combination between pasta and vegetables is unexpectedly amazing. For example, strashinati is served with cabbage and fried bacon or tomatoes and kachoricotta cheese.

Due to the large coastline, the region offers a wide variety of fish dishes (marinated, raw, dried, etc.).

Sweet lovers will be tempted by dried fruits, honey, mulled wine, candied fruit and chocolate. Be sure not to forget to try the Christmas sweets if you happen to be there in the winter!

How to get there?

There is the most correct answer to the question of how to get from Moscow to Puglia - by air. The international airport in Puglia is located in Bari. Having flown to Bari, you can get to any other city by train or bus. All detailed information about flights can be found here: http://www.aeroportidipuglia.it/homepagebari

You can also rent a car and get to your destination on your own. Pleasure is not cheap, detailed information on distances and fares (we remind you that trails in Italy are paid) can be viewed here: http://www.aeroportidipuglia.it/it/web/10181/parcheggi.

If you are traveling "complex" in Italy, then you can on the high-speed train to get to Bari from , Rome, Florence, . Information about routes and ticket prices can be found here: http://www.trenitalia.com/tcom-en.

Weather

The climate in Puglia is Mediterranean. Winters in the region are usually cool and windy, with hurricane-force winds possible.
The most "friendly" Apulia from May to October. The beach period usually lasts from mid-June to the end of September, the average water temperature during this period is 23-25˚С.

Enjoy beach holiday in Puglia you can from mid-June to the end of September

But here, to explore the region or enjoy hiking, summer and the Velvet season the most inappropriate pair - the exhausting heat will quickly tire.

May and October are the most comfortable months for sightseeing.

On average, the air temperature during the day is 22-23˚С, and at night it does not fall below 18˚С.

The Puglia region is located on the southeastern coast of the Apennine Peninsula, occupying the heel of the Italian "boot". This traditionally agricultural region is also one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Italy. The world-famous city of Alberobello trulli and the relics of St. Nicholas in Bari, cozy seaside towns and sunny beaches, huge amusement parks and thermal springs, olive groves, wineries, castles, caves - all this will give travelers a lot of new discoveries and impressions.

Business card

Puglia has the longest coastline in Italy, which is washed by two seas at once - the Adriatic and the Ionian.

What to see, where to visit

In the capital of the region, the city of Bari, where acquaintance with the Italian Puglia most often begins, there is the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, where the relics of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker are kept. Also noteworthy gothic cathedral St. Sabino, the Church of St. George, the Pinacoteca, located in the building of the Provinciale Palace, and the Fort of St. Anthony, within the walls of which there is a museum of modern art.

No less famous is the town of Alberobello, where you can see trulli - small whitewashed houses with conical roofs. The main city temple, the Church of St. Anthony, was built in the same style.

In general, interesting sights can be found in any corner of Puglia. In Andria - numerous churches, the Museum of Candy and the famous "castle on the mountain" Castel del Monte; in Barletta - a white-stone castle and a huge bronze colossus erected in honor of the Roman emperor; in Brindisi - the castle of Grande and the fortress of Forte Mare; in Ostuni - amazingly beautiful historical Center with tangled streets and snow-white houses; in Martino Franca (20 km from Ostuni) - Ducale Palace, where Leonador da Vinci, Donatello and other Italian geniuses once lived; in Lecce, richly decorated baroque palaces, churches and mansions; in Gallipoli - impressive architectural monuments different eras and styles.

In addition, there are several natural parks in the region (Gargano, Pollino, Gallipoli Cognato, Alta Murgia, etc.), and 40 km south of Bari, in the town of Castellana Grotte, there is a unique complex of karst caves, along which a 3-kilometer excursion route.

Beaches

The coast of Puglia in Italy, stretched along the Adriatic Sea, is a long line of picturesque beaches, mostly sandy.

There are excellent beaches in the north of the region - on rocky shores national park Gargano (resorts of Matinatta, Vieste, Rodi) and on the Tremiti Islands. In the direction of Bari and further south - a series of large sea ​​resorts(Barletta, Trani, Molfetta, Monopoli, Torre Canne, etc.) with well-equipped beaches stretching for tens of kilometers.

In southern Puglia, the most popular beaches are Brindisi, Ostuni, Marino di Odriano, Otranto, Galliano del Cape, Porto Cesareo, Gallipoli, etc. This part of the coast is characterized by expressive landscapes - grottoes, rocky bays and natural panoramic terraces.

Springs and recovery

Holidays in Puglia can be combined with treatment at one of the local thermal spas. The most famous are the Baths of Torre Canne (province of Brindisi), rich in healing mud, which is widely used for respiratory diseases, rheumatic and orthopedic problems; Margherita di Savoia (province of Barletta-Andria-Trani), famous for its salt lakes; Santa Cesaria Terme (province of Lecce) with hot sulfur springs that help in the treatment of rheumatism and dermatological diseases.

Entertainment and active recreation

Most of the time vacationers spend on the beaches - sunbathing, swimming, doing water sports and beach games. You can go for a walk through the vineyards and olive groves (on foot or by bike), drive to the natural or amusement park, attend a cultural event: each town has its own traditional holidays. Shopping, outlets and markets are no less fun: antiques in Gallipoli and Brindisi, crafts market in Alberobello, flower market in Lecce. In the evenings, tourists are waiting for restaurants, bars, nightclubs and discos. How bigger city or resort - the higher their concentration.

Local cuisine and wines

The local cuisine is based on natural products grown (or mined) here in Puglia. The most famous delicacies are taranta oysters and mussels, octopus dishes, fish baked in salt, mozzarella and burrata from the most delicate cream, lamb cooked in pots, orecchiette pasta with turnips, Apulian cauliflower, etc. An obligatory component is Apulian olive oil, which is considered the best in Italy.

In addition, it is worth trying original desserts made from fruits and honey, as well as local wines - for example, red Salice Salentino or white Locorotondo.

Family holiday

Puglia has several amusement parks for the whole family. So, in Italy's largest Zoosafari safari park (Fasano, 60 km from Bari), you can see dozens of species of wild animals, visit a dolphin show or ride a mini-train through the monkey village. The Miragica amusement park (Molfetta, 24 km from Bari) has an amazing "Land of the Giants", rides and a 4D cinema. Indiana Park (50 km from Bari) offers exciting adventures for all ages and skill levels. 20 km from Brindisi (the village of Cellino San Marco) there is a huge water park Carrisiland, and not far from Lecce there is a water amusement park Splash.

During a January trip to the Italian region of Puglia, we discovered many interesting places that we had not even heard of before. In this article, I will tell you about the cities of Puglia that we managed to visit during the trip.

Puglia is not only the capital city of Bari. These are also medieval towns on the tops of mountains, olive groves, the cozy coast of the Adriatic Sea, dotted with small towns and snow-white trulli, wine cellars and majestic palazzos. The cities of the Apulia region are located on different seas. Here you are walking around the city of Gallipoli on the Ionian Sea, drive only 50 km to the east and find yourself in the town of Otranto on the Adriatic Sea. I will move on to a description of what I remember about the individual towns of Puglia that we managed to visit.

Polignano a Mare

In fact, the entire city of Polignano a Mare stands on a rock, under which there are dozens of grottoes. Polignano a Mare is home to the most romantic restaurant and hotel in Europe, Grotta Palazzese. The restaurant is made right in a limestone cave and offers incredible views of the nearby grottoes and the Adriatic. AT winter time the restaurant is closed. The restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine and fine wines. This place is not cheap: the average check in it exceeds 100 Euros per person. In the evening, candles are lit in the restaurant, which creates an incredibly romantic and unique atmosphere.

Within the city of Polignano a Mare, among the limestone cliffs, there is a cozy little beach - a favorite vacation spot for locals. The beach is pebbly, so don't forget to bring swimming slippers with you.

Otranto

Italy's easternmost city is famous for its soft white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It seems that you are somewhere in the Caribbean, and not in the south of Italy. The beach is included in the top of the best Italian beaches and is good not only for swimming and sunbathing, but also for snorkeling.

Monopoli (Monopoli)

In Monopoli, you should definitely visit the port with many fishing boats and see how the fishermen get their catch from them - fish, mussels, shells. Near the port are the ancient fortifications of Charles V Castle dating back to the 16th century.

Trani

Trani is one of the most picturesque towns in Puglia, reminiscent of northern cities Italy, not like other cities of Puglia. The main attraction of Trani is a local Cathedral and a powerful, well-preserved castle of the 13th century, as well as a long promenade along the Adriatic Sea. There are many restaurants in the port area where you can eat pizza or seafood.

Barletta

Barletta is a port, non-tourist city. Barletta is famous for its Colossus, a bronze statue of the Roman Emperor Theodosius II. The height of the statue is 4 meters, which makes it the largest statue that has survived from the time of the late Roman Empire. In Barletta, as in other cities of Puglia, there are cathedrals, churches, a powerful fortress. The city is industrial, cement and concrete are produced here. We did not particularly like the beach: it was located next to cement plant and generally not equipped for recreation. Along the perimeter of Barletta beach there are summer houses and cabanas. In Barletta, we appreciated the delicious cakes at the Gelateria Bonelli coffee shop and gelateria.

Lecce

More than 40 churches are located in Lecce, the ruins of a powerful amphitheater have been preserved in the city center. Due to the city's Baroque architecture, Lecce is often referred to as the "Florence of the South of Italy". Most interesting place in the city - the central square of Piazza del Duomo with the cathedral, in the vicinity of which you can find worthy restaurants and gelateria. Be prepared for the fact that not everyone in Lecce understands English language. Despite the fact that Lecce is one of the largest cities southern Italy, its entire historical center is easy to walk, in time it will take 1-1.5 hours. The top sights of Lecce are the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Cathedral of Lecce, Piazza Sant'Oronzo.

Gallipoli

Gallipoli is a very interesting place to walk around the old town and along the sea. The city is surrounded on all sides by the sea, and only a bridge connects it to the mainland. Gallipoli is surrounded by strong fortified walls and has many churches. locals fish and work in tourism. Here they catch tuna, sea bass, brown perch, sea pike and immediately cook them in seaside restaurants.

Matera

Majestic White City located in the neighboring province of Puglia Basilicata. The old town - Sassi di Matera - is notable for the fact that it is spread out on a hill, the houses on which seem to be stuck to each other. Matera is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is believed that these places were the first human settlements in Italy. Matera is the center of Christian churches. Unique views of the city appeared in the films "The Passion of the Christ", "The Gospel of Matthew", "King David".

Ostuni

White city on a hill, the number of inhabitants in which triples in the summer. Ostuni produces high quality olive oil and wine. For its white walls and architecture, Ostuni is nicknamed the white city. The largest building in Ostuni is the cathedral. Ostuni is a favorite place of residence of the British in Italy, who move here for retirement. AT good weather at the entrance to Ostuni by car, you can make beautiful pictures: in contrast with the blue sky, the white houses of the city look amazing.

Locorotondo (Locorotondo)

Locorotondo is a small white city of just 14,000 people, famous for its wines and the circular location of the historic core of the city. Locorotondo is one of the most picturesque villages in Italy. Locorotondo is one of the most famous wine regions of Puglia. It produces light white wine Locorotondo DOC. Locorotondo is also listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the only city in the name of which as many as five letters "O" are used.

Alberobello (Alberobello)

Fairy-tale town with traditional dwellings - trulli. People come here for unforgettable photos with views of snow-white limestone houses with dark roofs. There are more than 1,500 trulla houses in the village. Perhaps it was the trulli that glorified the region of Puglia to the whole world. In the summer it is not overcrowded with tourists, so come here in autumn or winter. In addition to this village, trulli are found in other cities.