Puglia
(Apulia) forms the easternmost
part of the Italian peninsula and
has a long coastline, facing the
Ionian and Adriatic Seas. Puglia
is essentially a flatland with
wide arid expanses. The coast is
often high, plunging steep into
the sea; in other areas, it is
sandy or rocky, but usually flat.
The region's capital Bari, enjoyed
its "golden age" during
medieval times and its history
can be witnessed by the Cathedral
and Church of St. Nicholas. Many
cathedral cities were built during
the medieval era include Brindisi,
Andria, Barletta, Trani, Ruvo di
Puglia, Lucera, Troia, Manfredonia,
Otranto, and Gallipoli
A proper visit to Puglia should
include the Tremiti Islands, rising
off the coast in the sparkling
sea. From Spring through Autumn,
the Islands can easily be reached
by a boat service from Manfredonia.
The Tremiti Islands are an underwater
fishing paradise, for the clearness
of their waters and the vast sea
life. Similarly, those preferring
to remain on land can enjoy the
unspoilt coastline and great beaches
such as Torre Canne. The coastal
stretch from Gallipoli to Taranto
is worth a visit.
For more spectacular history,
travel inland from the old Venetian
trading port of Monopoli and stop
in Castellana Grotte to see the
stalactite caverns. The Roman ruins
of Egnazia are another highlight
while Martina Franca, is a delightful
town whose Palazzo Ducale is the
only building in southern Italy
attributed to the great Baroque
architect Lorenzo Bernini.
Puglia also produces around one-tenth
of the wine drunk in Europe. A
favourite dessert wine is Moscato
de Trani while the best reds are
known to come from the Peninsula
Salentina. The Trulli area around
Locorotondo is home to a pleasant
dry white wine (Locorotondo). Coffee-lovers
should try an Espressino, which
is served in many towns and is
similar to a cappuccino with less
milk. |
