Alberobello ()
A relaxing and sun-kissed Italian getaway usually involves the stunning canals of Venice, the dramatic shoreline of the Amalfi Coast, the quaint and colorful cliffside cities in Cinque Terre or the majestic and imposing capital of Rome. However, tucked along the southern heel of Italy’s boot in the Puglia region is the charming village of Alberobello. Filled with one-of-a-kind buildings straight out of a fantasy novel and amazing food, you’ll want to put this one on your bucket list.
Just a mere hour south of the nearest airport in Bari, Alberobello is nestled in the rolling hills of southern Italy. A striking view of narrow cobblestone streets lined with gleaming white limestone dwellings topped with curiously conical roofs, known as trulli, greet you as you walk around. These unique hut-type buildings date back to the 14th century and were often used as storehouses or shelters for nearby farmers. Today, there are nearly 1,500 trulli in the village. Most are used as private residences, museums, restaurants and boutique hotels. The impressive Church of St. Anthony of Padua was constructed in the same fashion. The largest trullo in town is Trullo Sovrano. Boasting two levels, it recreates a living history of what life was like centuries ago and was designated an Italian National Monument in 1930.
Walking through the town, you’ll find fabulous vintage markets selling a wide array of famous Puglia ceramics and locally produced handmade linens and, on occasion, filet lace. The village is known for colorful textile work; you can find vibrant tablecloths, towels and sheets draped on racks outside shops. The filet lace is more of a rarity these days. The trade has all but disappeared because of the time-consuming, intricate needlework required to produce the delicate designs. For beautiful fabrics, relatively inexpensive Italian souvenirs, head to Donna Lia. Located in one of the quieter alleys, this shop is located in an authentic trullo. The friendly owners are happy to strike up a conversation and impart the rich history of their town.
If exploring this rustic fairy-tale village has left you feeling hungry, there are a plethora of local spots to whet your appetite. Many trattorias and ristorantes serve up freshly made Puglia pasta dishes. Made with locally grown Cappelli wheat, the protein-rich dough is a specialty in the region. For a delicious dinner with a spectacular view of the trulli, Tipico Bistrot serves up tasty meals without breaking the bank. Diners can feast from a seven-course tasting menu starting at 25 euros per person. Paired with an iconic Italian wine and it’ll be a meal to remember. Just remember dinner begins late in Italy, with many restaurants in Alberobello opening at 7 p.m. or later.
When planning your next Italian getaway, put southeastern Italy on your list. Alberobello is a unique and fascinating village you won’t find anywhere else. With fewer tourists and breathtaking, picture-perfect vistas, you won’t regret the choice to visit.
