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APULIA
Apulia lies to the southeast part of the Italian peninsula. It is surrounded by the Ionic and the Adriatic seas. Its coastline is surrounded by wheat fields, gardens, olive groves and vineyards. Apulia saw inhibition even in 3000 B.C. before the rise of civilization. These ancient inhabitants left behind traces of their cultures. Apulia in ancient times has remained a home to the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Normans, the French, and the Spanish, all of contributed their own styles in enriching this land with their own cities and monuments.
Most remarkable structures here are: - its Romanesque cathedrals, the Swabian and Aragonese castles, and the Leccese Baroque.
Cities of Art and History:
Northern region of Apulia is the province of Foggia. This is renowned for its Gargano Promontory, which is a long coast dotted with charming fishing villages. These are also tourist attractions. Gargano has got two assets: Monte Sant'Angelo, an ancient 5th century town center dedicated to the worship of the Archangel Michael, and San Giovanni Rotondo.
Next spot is Bari, the capital city of Apulia. The streets of the old city form a maze. The most important of Bari's monuments is the basilica of Saint Nicolas, an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture. Along the Bari coastline lie Trani, Barletta and Molfetta, trade cities of medieval time.
Towards the inner region of Apulia lies the territory of Murge, known for vineyards, olive groves, wheat fields, and almond groves.Walled cities encircling historical centers are rich with Romanesque art: Bitonto, Ruvo di Apulia and Canosa. Rising up on a hill, it is one of the definitive symbols of Apulia: Castel del Monte, the most mysterious of the many castles built by Frederick II of Swabia.
Continue towards the south to encounter the magnificent Itria Valley. This is an enchanted landscape, colonized by thousands of "trulli", cone-shaped dwellings unique in the world. Most of these dwellings can be found at Alberobello and Locorotondo.
Near the coast of Brindisi arises the white expanse of Ostuni, high on a ridge. Today, it is a famous tourist center.
Even further south, you find the ancient town of Lecce, often called "Florence of the South" for the incomparable beauty of its churches and monuments. From Lecce begins delightful Salento, the heel of the boot of Italy, with its landscapes and traditions.
Towards the north of Taranto, the most unusual landscapes in Italy: the ravines arises. These canyons with limestone walls were used as shelters in the medieval times. The best-known city in this area is Massafra.
Sea and Nature
The coasts of the Adriatic Sea are usually rocky, separated by inlets of white sand, while wide sandy beaches await you on the coasts of the Ionic. Nature has bestowed this place with astonishing beauty and galore.
Cuisine
Cuisine has been influenced by the many populations who have been a part of this fertile land during many centuries. Principal prerequisites to this region's cooking are olive oil; vegetables from gardens; and durum wheat, the base ingredient for bread and many types of artisanal pasta. Fish is prepared in numerous ways. The desserts are rich in honey and dry fruits.