Exploring the Historical UNESCO Sites in Puglia

Located on the southeastern region of Italy, no place can reveal more of the country's fascinating history than the region in the "heel" of the boot - Puglia. Holidays here are perfect for those who have an interest in historical sites.

First settled in the 8th century BC, Puglia was a vital location for many who fancied their chances of controlling the important region of Italy. In terms of modern appeal, the area has stunning beaches, some of the most outstanding Baroque architecture in Italy, and a number of important archaeological sites. While in the region, make sure you take the time to explore the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites situated here.

Castel del Monte

Translated as "Castle of the Mountain", Castel del Monte is a 13th century citadel and castle that presides over the surrounding lands. Built by Emperor Frederick II, the castle is an example of a precision layout quite unlike anything else in Puglia. Holidays that include a visit to the castle will allow you to explore its fascinating mathematical and astronomical design, which so perfectly marries medieval, Islamic Orient, and north European Gothic architecture. A curious aspect of the castle is its lack of traditional castle attributes, such as a moat and stables. It was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

The Trulli of Alberobello

Also inscripted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 are the Trulli of Alberobello, located in the Bari region of Puglia. Holidays to this area of the coast should include a visit to the town to wander around and explore these unique cone-shaped houses. These traditional limestone dwellings are a great example of drywall architecture, which is still sometimes used in this region. Houses made of roughly hewn limestone blocks from the local fields are topped with domed roofs made up of limestone slabs. The walls are usually painted white and the roofs are left to develop a coating of moss. The current settlement dates from the mid 14th century, and the houses are still inhabited by locals. There are about 1,500 trulli still in use in the area and, if you fancy, you can even stay in one.

The Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches

Inscripted in 1993 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sassi and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches are well worth seeing while in Puglia. Holidays that take you to the Province of Matera should include a visit to this interesting site, which is an ideal example of a rock-cut settlement. There is evidence of a continuity of inhabitancy for over two thousand years, and also remnants of underground cisterns from the Bronze Age. Much of the area’s growth was due to the soft tufo that allowed inhabitants to dig into the rock and create the homes and settlements. The ancient centre was lived in right up until the 1950s, when the government re-housed the inhabitants.

Carolyn Spinks is from ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re looking for the perfect Puglia holidays their LoveItaly website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, ‘insider’ tips, year round special offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.