Travel guide to Alberobello Italy
Table of Contents
Located in southern Italy’s Apulia region, Alberobello is a captivating village renowned for its unique trulli houses.
These iconic white cone-shaped dwellings offer visitors a glimpse into a world of enchanting architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Stroll through the narrow streets, marvel at the traditional craftsmanship, and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Alberobello.
History of Alberobello
The history of Alberobello traces back to the 15th century when the region was under the rule of the Kingdom of Naples.
Initially an agricultural area, the population grew steadily, leading to a demand for housing. This demand gave rise to the unique trulli, the traditional cone-shaped houses that have become synonymous with Alberobello.
The trulli of Alberobello have a long history, with origins believed to date back to prehistoric times.
The settlers of the region adopted and perfected the construction techniques of these dry-stone structures, which allowed them to be easily dismantled and reassembled as needed.
The absence of mortar in their construction is a testament to the precise craftsmanship of the builders.
The Trulli style
In the 16th century, the Acquaviva family, the Counts of Conversano, came into power in the region. They enacted a decree requiring all new constructions in Alberobello to be made using dry-stone techniques, specifically the trulli style.
This decree was a clever tactic to avoid paying property taxes to the Kingdom of Naples, as the trulli could be quickly dismantled when inspections were due.
Alberobello: UNESCO World Heritage
Alberobello’s trulli district was recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, underscoring its historical and architectural significance. This designation emphasizes the importance of preserving the unique cultural heritage of the town.
Today, visitors can explore the trulli, which serve various purposes such as private residences, shops, restaurants, and accommodations, offering a glimpse into the town’s past while embracing its vibrant present.
Rione Monti quarter
As you stroll through the charming streets of Rione Monti, you’ll notice friendly shop owners basking in the sunshine, inviting you to step inside their unique Trulli shops.
There’s no pressure to buy, but it’s a wonderful chance to see the fascinating interiors of these iconic buildings.
Supporting local businesses is key to the thriving tourism-driven economy of Alberobello, so why not find a souvenir you love and make a meaningful contribution to this enchanting town?
Rione Aia Piccola
Immerse yourself in Rione Aia Piccola in Alberobello, where you can wander among 500 unique trulli and catch a glimpse of locals who still call these gnome-sized buildings home.
Discover the history and heritage of this scenic district as you stroll through its quaint streets and take in the panoramic views of the clustered trulli patches.
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Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian
When you venture outside of the tourist-frequented Trulli district, you’ll come across the awe-inspiring Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian.
This magnificent church is dedicated to the Saints Medici Cosma and Damiano, and inside you can view relics that draw pilgrims from far and wide every year.
Casa d’Amore
Step into Casa d’Amore, a captivating historic building in Alberobello that tells the story of local resistance against the Acquaviva family.
Admire the intricate details of this well-preserved structure, which stands as a testament to the end of the feudal era in this charming Italian town.
Trullo Sovrano
Don’t miss a visit to Trullo Sovrano, the unique two floors trullo that has been transformed into a captivating heritage museum.
Discover the history of the town and its surrounding area through the museum’s exhibits during its opening hours (from 10 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. to 7 p.m (closing at 6 p.m. from November to March).
Admission is €2 per adult or €1.50 for concessions. Easily locate Trullo Sovrano on Google Maps to plan your visit to Alberobello.
Belvedere Santa Lucia
Elevate your Alberobello experience with a visit to Belvedere Santa Lucia. Located near Chiesa di Santa Lucia, this scenic spot offers panoramic views of the charming Rione Monte area.
Capture stunning photos, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Alberobello from this must-visit vantage point.
Where to eat in Alberobello?
For a quick and delicious meal that won’t break the bank, “La Pagnottella” is a good spot.
This place is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Indulge in their mouthwatering traditional paninis, including a vegetarian option, and pair them with a refreshing beer.
You’ll be surprised by the price we paid for two paninis and two beers- in total 14 euros.
Conveniently located and renowned for its enjoyable service, La Pagnottella Panini Lovers has earned a stellar 4.7-star rating from Google users.
Link to the place: Click here to visit the website.
Worth a Visit to Alberobello?
Alberobello is a unique town with its iconic trulli houses.
It’s definitely worth a visit it, so you can experience the charm of these traditional limestone dwellings and learn about the local history.
However, be prepared for crowds as it can be touristy, so visiting early morning or late afternoon can offer a more authentic experience.