Alberobello
For a taste of traditional Puglian culture, take a day trip to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique trulli houses. Wander the streets lined with these cone-shaped buildings and visit the Trullo Sovrano, a larger two-story trullo that is now a museum.
Alberobello’s historic center is definitely on the small side and it’s quite literally impossible to miss the trulli. However, something not everyone knows is that the town is still split up into 3 main trulli districts, with the two primary ones being Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola.
Many people tend to stick to the more touristy area of Rione Monti, where you’ll find the majority of the tourist shops, restaurants and bars lining the main street of Via Monte Michele. The rows of Trulli houses are hard to miss, but just in case the GPS coordinates of Rione Monti in Alberobello, Italy are approximately 40.784276, 17.234594.
Don’t forget to take a stroll around the picturesque Rione Aia Piccola district too, which is the oldest area of Alberobello , and much quieter and more authentic than other parts of the town.
Things to do in Alberobello
1. Visit or stay in Trulli houses: Alberobello is famous for its unique, cone-shaped houses known as Trulli. Take a stroll through the town and marvel at these historic and fairytale-like structures.
2. Explore the Rione Aia Piccola district: This area of Alberobello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to some of the most well-preserved Trulli houses in the town. Wander through the narrow streets and take in the beauty of this ancient district and popular destination.
3. Taste local cuisine: Alberobello is known for its delicious food, so be sure to sample some of the local dishes while you’re there. Try traditional Apulian cuisine such as orecchiette pasta, burrata cheese, and fresh seafood.
4. Visit the Church of Saint Anthony: This beautiful church is located in the heart of Alberobello and features a stunning interior with intricate frescoes and sculptures. Take some time to explore this historic site and learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage.
5. Visit wineries of the d’Itria Valley and drive around the beautiful countryside. Only 15 minutes to the Valle d’Itria, and several beautiful wineries. Learn more about Puglia’s beautiful wine country
6. Explore the shops: Check out the shops and Cafes in the Rione Aia Piccola district, but also the shops in the greater urban center.
Trulli Houses in Alberobello
What is a Trulli house?
Trulli houses in Alberobello, Italy are special because they are unique, cone-shaped buildings made of limestone and typically topped with a conical roof. These traditional structures date back to the 14th century and are specific to the Apulia region of Italy.
The origin of Trulli houses is thought to be linked to a tax loophole in the past. By constructing houses without using mortar, the local villagers could dismantle them quickly when tax collectors came around, thus avoiding paying property taxes. Over time, this style of architecture became ingrained in the local culture and continues to be a unique feature of the region. The Trulli houses in Alberobello are now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist attraction.
The concentration of trulli houses in Alberobello is due to a historical decree by the Counts of Conversano in the 17th century, which ordered that all new constructions in the area be built without using mortar, so that they could be easily demolished if necessary. As a result, the residents of Alberobello began building their homes in the trulli style, using limestone rocks and a conical roof made of overlapping stones.
Were Trulli houses practical to live in?
Trulli houses, traditional stone dwellings found in the Apulia region of Italy, are generally secure from the elements and were practical to live in. Their conical roofs, made of limestone slabs without mortar, are designed to keep out rainwater and protect against extreme weather conditions. The thick stone walls also provide insulation, keeping the interior cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
In terms of practicality, trulli houses were well suited for the agricultural lifestyle of the region. Their compact size and simple design made them easy and cost-effective to construct, while their thick walls and small windows helped to regulate temperature and protect against the harsh Mediterranean climate. The circular layout of the interior also maximized space and allowed for efficient use of resources.
Are Trulli houses protected?
In 1996, Alberobello was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in order to protect its unique trulli architecture and ensure its preservation for future generations. Today, the town is a popular tourist destination, and the trulli houses are carefully maintained and restored to maintain their original charm and cultural significance.
Can I stay In a Trulli house?
Trulli are traditional Apulian dry stone huts with conical roofs, typically found in the Itria Valley. These unique accommodations offer a charming and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway in the countryside. Here are a couple of picks outside of Alberobello.
Borgo San Francesco
Borgo San Francesco is a wine-valley retreat immersed in the history and tranquility of the Itria Valley. Each trullo has been carefully renovated, respecting the traditional architecture but without sacrificing modern comfort. You can lodge in the serene countryside with the unique experience of sleeping in a Trulli, where every stone tells a story.
Try Trulli il Castagno
A skillfully restored ancient trulli farmhouse from the 1800s awaits you for your stay in Itria Valley, in the heart of Apulia. Trulli il Castagno offer 4 independent trullo-houses or the entire property surrounded by nature and silence, among vineyards, olive trees, trulli, dry stone walls. Offering a warm welcome, a swimming pool, shared vegetable gardens, breathtaking sunsets, classic and natural wines, the flavors of tradition, authenticity.
Can I buy a Trulli house?
The interesting Symbology on Trulli Houses
Dining in Alberobello
Best Restaurants off the beaten path
Alberobello can get quite touristy- especially in season. Here are a couple of great spots off the beaten path.
Ristorante Gli Ulivi
Tucked away from the tourist areas, Ristorante Gli Ulivi offers a peaceful dining with local specialties. Grilled fish and vegetable antipasti are recommended
Trullo Garden
This beautiful garden setting is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a peaceful meal. Their menu highlights traditional and modern dishes with fresh, local ingredients.
Al Boschetto (Noci) This restaurant is about 10k or 6 miles outside of Alberobello. Old school Italian family- brilliant starter with marinated vegetables, cheese, meats – and of course the Capocollo that nearby Martina Franca is famous for. Try the Tagliatelle with seafood!