The trulli of the Valle d'Itria – a journey through the heart of Puglia
Discover the magic of the Valle d'Itria in Puglia: a tour of trulli, white villages, ancient olive trees and hidden gems such as Locorotondo, Martina Franca and Ostuni.
An enchanting journey through the heart of Puglia
Our tour through the picturesque Valle d'Itria was really picturesque, with rolling hills, silver-green olive groves and the iconic trulli – small, whitewashed houses with cone-shaped roofs that rise like stone mushrooms from the landscape. We drove from Fasano to Alberobello, Martina Franca, Cisternino and Locorotondo, and it was amazing. The ancient olive trees, some of which are thousands of years old, have trunks that look like sculptures – shaped by time, wind and sun.
What are trulli?
Trulli are traditional limestone houses, typical of the Valle d'Itria. They're basically just one or more rooms, each with its own cone-shaped roof. Some roofs have symbols – Christian, pagan or astrological – that refer to ancient beliefs and protective rituals. The way they're built without using cement makes them special and able to last for centuries, even in the hot Mediterranean climate.
Alberobello – between authenticity and symbolism
Alberobello has the largest concentration of trulli. Be sure to visit the Aia Piccola district, where some 400 trulli have been preserved in their original state. There are no shops here, which helps the village to keep its authenticity. Take a stroll through the narrow streets and feel the tranquillity of a place where time seems to have stood still.
On the other side of the town is the Monti district, which is more touristy but still really interesting. Here you'll find the trulli church and roofs painted with mysterious symbols. The best view of Monti is from the belvedere just above the large piazza on the Aia Piccola side.
White villages and hidden gems
The Valle d'Itria has more to offer than just trulli. The white villages are a sight to behold and a treat for the senses:
- Locorotondo is a charming village with winding streets, cosy shops and a beautiful view of the surrounding trulli. You should definitely check out the Via dei Miracoli boutique, where you can find amazing handmade linen clothing. And don't miss the chance to enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace at Vinifera. The little park next to the town hall has great views of the valley.
Martina Franca is a Baroque gem with amazing churches and façades. Take a stroll down Via Cavour, soak up the architecture, and then grab a bite at Osteria di Coco Pazzo – it's a simple, local spot that serves up some delicious food.
Ceglie Messapica: Ideal for a short walk and a coffee break. Quiet, authentic and perfect as a stopover.
Ostuni is known as the white city on the hill. Start your visit at Piazza della Libertà and head to the historic centre. Stroll through alleys, stairways and hidden squares, surrounded by fortified walls. You should definitely visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and check out the typical ceramics shops.
Grotte di Castellana – an underground wonder
Not far from the Valle d'Itria are the impressive Grotte di Castellana. This karst complex was formed 90 million years ago and wasn't discovered until 1938. On a one or three kilometres guided tour, you will walk past stalagmites, stalactites and bizarre rock formations – a surreal underground landscape.
