Famed for its conical-roofed trulli, Alberobello is a charming town in Italy’s Apulia region that has been settled since the early 16th century. Its hilltop Rione Monti neighbourhood is clustered with more than 1,000 trulli and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Things to do in Alberobello
One of Alberobello’s most impressive structures is Trullo Sovrano, a two-floor trulli that dates back to the early 17th century. Originally home to a priest’s family, it now houses a heritage museum where you can learn about life in Alberobello. Wander through the recreated bakery and the rounded bedroom where original furnishings and artefacts are on display. Keep your eyes peeled for Il Trullo Piu Piccolo, the smallest trulli in Alberobello.
Also featuring cone-shaped roofs is the Church of Sant’Antonio, which opened to worshippers in 1927 and is the only trullo church in the world. Designed with a Greek cross plan, it features a beautiful rose window and a finely decorated interior with frescoes by Adolfo Rollo. Opposite the church are the leafy walking trails and playground of Villa Donnaloja.
In the heart of Alberobello is the Territory Museum “House Pezzolla” where antique tools and furnishings are exhibited. Pick up an audio guide to learn about the geology of the region and the design of trulli, as well as Pugliese peasant life throughout the centuries. After your visit, soak up the views across Alberobello and its whitewashed houses from the Belvedere Santa Lucia.
Getting around Alberobello
Alberobello is around 15 minutes’ drive from Martina Franca and about an hour from Bari. Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport is one hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Alberobello railway station and buses travel throughout the town. The centre of Alberobello is ideally explored on foot.