The trulli are traditional buildings in Alberobello, a town in the Puglia region in southern Italy. These peculiar constructions are characterized by their materials—dry limestone—and their iconic or pyramidal shape at the top, on the roof. The trulli of Alberobello have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, although they can also be found in nearby towns such as Locorotondo. This place boasts more than 1,500 trulli, which are the main reason why tourists from all over the world travel to Puglia to learn more about them and enjoy this wonderful region.
In this article, we will share very interesting information about the famous trulli. We’ll tell you about their history and everything you can do in Alberobello and its surroundings. Keep reading—this magical place could be your next destination.
The history of the trulli of Alberobello dates back to the Middle Ages. At that time, they were built as dwellings for farmers. Thanks to the materials used, they are still in perfect condition today, staying very cool in summer and warm in winter. No two trulli are the same, and they were built by hand, without any kind of blueprint or guide. They were constructed without cement or binding material, simply using the dry stone technique. Later on, trulli began to be built with mortar—a mix of lime, sand, and water—to improve their stability. The interiors of the trulli are open-plan, without doors. They have small windows that allow sunlight to enter.
Today, they are still used as storage spaces and are homes for many residents of Alberobello. Due to the large number of tourists who travel to Puglia to see them, some have been transformed into shops, restaurants, and even hotels with all kinds of amenities.
Alberobello is located in the fantastic Itria Valley. Aside from the popular trulli neighborhoods, Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola, this destination has many other points of interest. For example, the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian, built in the Baroque style; the large Belvédère Santa Lucia viewpoint, from where you can admire the vast trulli districts and get lost in their magical streets.
If you travel to Alberobello, it’s essential to explore the nearby towns. Visiting the surroundings is quite interesting to discover the beauty and authentic essence of southern Italy. On Pugliadeitrulli.com, in the heart of the Itria Valley, you’ll find the perfect accommodation, with a magnificent location that avoids long travel distances. The nearby towns you’ll love to visit include Locorotondo, known for its hilltop location and its beautiful and varied architectural styles in monuments such as the Baroque Palazzo Morelli or the Neoclassical Church of San Giorgio; Cisternino, with its picturesque historic center reflecting cultural influences from past eras and its traditional cuisine featuring exquisite meat stews; and finally, the white town of Ostuni, with its beautiful Gothic cathedral, Aragonese towers overlooking the streets, and the spectacular Torre Guaceto Nature Reserve.
As you can see, traveling to the trulli of Alberobello not only takes you back in time, but also offers the opportunity to explore a beautiful Italian region full of culture and tradition. While visiting the trulli and the lovely nearby towns, you can enjoy tastings of exquisite local products and fine wines, and discover the vast vineyards of the Itria Valley through excursions and guided tours.
Don’t wait any longer to discover the charm of the trulli of Alberobello!