Alberobello, a quaint town in Italy’s southeast, close to Bari, is a must-visit destination for travellers. Each year, it draws a large number of tourists. The town’s claim to fame is its distinctive Trulli houses. These unique structures are made from stones without the use of mortar. They’re painted white and topped with conical roofs that bear white signs, making them resemble miniature churches. Lime gives them their white hue and shields them from the elements. The original Trulli were quite small, with a single room and a square layout, standing just 1.5 meters tall.
In the Rione Monti district, the Trulli serve primarily as tourist attractions. However, in the Piccola district, they are still inhabited by locals. The Trulli of Alberobello is a testament to a millennia-old dry-stone building tradition seen throughout the Mediterranean region. Around 1,000 AD, there were scattered rural settlements in what is now Alberobello. Over time, these settlements expanded and evolved into the modern-day villages of Aia Piccola and Monti.
Alberobello is part of the I Borghi più belli d’Italia association, which translates to “The Most Beautiful Villages of Italy”. As of 2022, it has a population of 10,237 and is renowned for its unique trullo buildings.
Alberobello is home to around fourteen houses, most of which are believed to have been built in the 17th century. Since 1996, the Trulli of Alberobello has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built side by side, they draw visitors not just from Europe, but from all corners of the globe.
So, why were these houses constructed without mortar? The history of Alberobello can be traced back to the latter half of the 16th century. The count at the time ordered that the houses be built without mortar. This was because a tax was levied on urban settlements, and the houses could be easily dismantled in case of a royal inspection. Thus, these structures were initially intended to be temporary and easy to remove.
There is also a small church in this picturesque town, the Church of St. Antonina from the 1920s on the hill Rione Monti. It was built in the same style as the Trulli houses. It immediately impresses everyone with an almost 20-meter-high dome and a decorative rosette.
What is the best time to visit Alberobello?
If you’re planning a trip to Alberobello, Italy, consider going in July. This month is known for its warm weather, with daytime temperatures often hitting 30℃ (87℉). But if you’re not a fan of large crowds, the months of April to May or September to October might be more suitable for you. These times are less crowded and the weather is still enjoyable. Just a heads up, winter nights can get quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as 6℃ (43℉).
How to get to Alberobello from Bari?
- Bus: You can catch a bus operated by Ferrovie del Sud Est e Servizi Automobilistici from Bari Largo Sorrentino to Alberobello. Buses run every 2 hours and the trip takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. FlixBus also runs this route once a day.
- Train: Alternatively, you can take a train from Bari to Alberobello with a change at Putignano. This journey typically lasts around 3 hours and 7 minutes.
- Car: If you’d rather drive, you can take the SS16/E55 route towards Brindisi from Bari. After about 40km, you’ll see an exit for Alberobello. Follow the signs to reach the town.
Remember, schedules can vary, so it’s always wise to check for the most recent information before setting off on your journey.
