Apulia

Welcome to Italy in Photos and an immersive visual journey through the enchanting town of Italian region of Apulia: – Apulia, also known by its Italian name Puglia, is a region of Italy located in the southern peninsular section of the country. It borders the Adriatic Sea to the east, the Strait of Otranto and Ionian Sea to the southeast, and the Gulf of Taranto to the south. Apulia’s coastline is longer than that of any other mainland Italian region. In the north, the Gargano promontory extends into the Adriatic Sea like a ‘sperone’ (spur), while in the south, the Salento peninsula forms the ‘tacco’ (heel) of Italy’s boot. The region encompasses approximately 19,345 square kilometres (7,469 sq mi) and is characterized by rocky heathlands, olive groves, and small fields surrounded by drystone walls. The highest peak in Apulia is Monte Cornacchia (1,152 m/3) within the Daunian Mountains. Apulia experiences a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures occasionally exceeding 40°C/104°F in cities like Lecce and Foggia. Coastal areas are exposed to varying winds that significantly impact local temperatures.

Apulia has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was colonized by Mycenaean Greeks and became a centre of Magna Graecia. Over centuries, it was conquered by various civilizations: Romans, Byzantines, Normans, Aragonese, and Spanish. Part of its territory belonged to Magna Graecia and was populated by coastal Greek colonies. Lecce, known as the “Florence of the South,” boasts stunning Baroque architecture and intricate stone carvings. The region is home to beautiful historic towns like Bari, where old meets new along its picturesque waterfront. The unique conical-roofed houses (trulli) in Alberobello are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apulia once produced 40% of Italy’s world-famous olive oil from its 60 million olive trees. Unfortunately, an American bacterium called Xylella fastidiosa, spread by spittlebugs, has devastated olive groves since 2013. Some groves now contain dying trees due to water uptake issues caused by this bacterium. Apulia’s landscape includes two national parks: Gargano National Park in the north and Alta Murgia National Park in the west. The Salento peninsula offers stunning coastal views and crystal-clear waters. Apulia is a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, culinary delights (including its famous orecchiette pasta), and warm Mediterranean vibes. Whether you explore ancient ruins or relax on pristine beaches, this region leaves an indelible impression on visitors. Let our captivating photographs transport you to the very heart of Apulia, capturing its unique essence in every meticulously crafted image. Italy in Photos – uncovering the wonders of Italy, one breathtaking image at a time.

The Provinces of Apulia

Bari is a province in the region of Apulia, Italy. It is a place where you can enjoy the beauty of the sea, the mountains, and the art. Bari has many attractions to offer to visitors who want to explore both the city and the province, such as: – The city of Bari: – This is the capital of the province, with a history that dates back to ancient times. You can admire the Cathedral of San Nicola, a Romanesque church with a beautiful fresco and a holy door. You can also visit the Normanno Svevo Castle, a medieval fortress that houses a museum of Byzantine art and culture. And you can stroll along the Giardino dei Tigli, a park with lime trees and fountains. – The coast of Bari is a beautiful and lively destination for tourists who want to enjoy the sea, the sun, and the culture of Apulia. Here are some of the things you can do and see on the coast of Bari: – Relax on the sandy beaches and swim in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. You can choose from many seaside resorts and towns, such as Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Mola di Bari, and Torre a Mare. – Enjoy the nightlife and the shopping in the city of Bari. You can find many bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops along Corso Cavour or Via Sparano. The coast of Bari is a place where you can have fun, relax, and learn more about the history and traditions of Apulia. The hinterland of the province of Bari is a fascinating and diverse area, where you can discover the natural and cultural treasures of Apulia. Here are some of the things you can do and see in the hinterland of Bari: – Visit the medieval villages and castles that dot the landscape, such as Conversano, Gravina in Puglia, Castel del Monte, and Bitonto¹. You can admire the architecture, the art, and the history of these places, and enjoy the local cuisine and traditions. – Explore the karst caves and grottoes that are hidden under the ground, such as Castellana Grotte, Grotta del Trullo, and Grotta di Santa Barbara. You can marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils that decorate these natural wonders, and learn more about the geology and archaeology of the region. – Enjoy the nature and the activities that the hinterland of Bari offers, such as hiking, biking, horse riding, or golfing. You can choose from many trails and routes that cross the hills, the woods, and the fields, and admire the flora and fauna of this area. The hinterland of Bari is a place where you can experience the authentic and varied aspects of Apulia.

Brindisi is a province in the region of Apulia, Italy. It has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the things you can see and do in Brindisi: – Visit the Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, a circular church built by the Knights Templar in the 12th century. It has frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the Crusades. – Admire the Colonne Terminali della Via Appia, two Roman columns that mark the end of the ancient road that connected Rome to Brindisi. One of the columns has a bronze statue of St. Oronzo, the patron saint of Lecce. – Explore the Port of Brindisi, one of the most important ports in Italy. You can see the Castello Alfonsino, a fortress built by King Alfonso II of Naples in the 15th century, and the Monumento al Marinaio d’Italia, a modern sculpture dedicated to the Italian sailors who died in World War I and II. – Enjoy the nature and wildlife at the Torre Guaceto protected marine area and the Torre Pozzelle natural oasis. You can swim, snorkel, kayak, or bike along the coast and see various species of plants and animals.
– Visit Ostuni, a charming white town perched on a hill overlooking the sea. It has a medieval centre with narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and a majestic cathedral with a rose window.

Foggia is a province in the region of Apulia, Italy. It has many attractions to offer, such as historical sites, natural parks, beaches, and charming towns. Here are some of the things you can see and do in Foggia: –
Visit the Santuario di San Michele Arcangelo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a cave church dedicated to the archangel Michael, where pilgrims have been coming for centuries. – Explore the Peschici centro storico, a picturesque white village on a cliff overlooking the sea. You can wander through the narrow streets, admire the views, and taste the local cuisine. – Enjoy the Vieste Promenade, a scenic walk along the coast. You can see the Castello Svevo, a medieval castle, and the Pizzomunno, a huge white rock that is a symbol of Vieste. – Relax at the Spiaggia di Vignanotica, a beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs and olive trees. You can swim, sunbathe, or rent a boat to explore the nearby caves.

Lecce is a province in the region of Apulia. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful coastal towns. Here are some attractions you might want to consider: – One of the beautiful coastal towns accessible from Lecce is Gallipoli. This town is split into two main sections – the main part of the town that sits on the coast, and the small island that is accessible from a single road jutting out into the sea. – Outdoor Activities: – The province offers a variety of outdoor activities such as City Tours, Kayaking Tours, Wine Tastings, Walking Tours, Cooking Classes, Dining Experiences. – Historic Sites The province is home to several historic sites such as Centro Storico in Lecce and Centro Storico Otranto. These historic walking areas are easy to cover in less than a day but are worth visiting. – Beaches: – The province also boasts beautiful beaches like Baia dei Turchi. The beach is very beautiful, sandy, with rocks on the sides, practically without waves, and very shallow for the most part. – Caves: – You might also want to visit Grotta della Poesia, one of the famous caverns in the province.

Foggia

Peschici

Santa Maria Al Bongo