Whether Puglia is completely new to you or not, you'll probably have come across these special little buildings. And they've come to represent the true, authentic Puglia: an iconic vision of the past which now blends into the present.
Read on to explore why the humble trulli of Puglia have become such a sincere and loved part of the region's charm.
Trulli, Puglia and me
In the heart of southern Italy, nestled in the picturesque region of Puglia, lies a remarkable and unique architectural wonder: the trulli. These enchanting, cone-shaped houses, which seem almost plucked from a fairy tale, have captured the imagination of visitors and locals alike for centuries. A visit to Puglia's countryside, especially the Valle d'Itria, offers a journey into a world where history, culture, and architecture blend seamlessly to create a captivating landscape dotted with these distinctive structures.
On my very first visit to Puglia in August 2010, I was fascinated by seeing all these tiny stone structures, and somewhat delighted to stay in one (they are quite often part of people's houses here). To be honest, I found that without air conditioning, the trullo became hot and stuffy. So personally I prefer a more modern villa when I stay in Puglia.
And most recently, staying near Serranova (between Ostuni and Brindisi) for a quick visit to see friends, I was amazed to see not a single trullo in the area (I had just assumed they were everywhere). So don't always assume that your Puglia holiday will automatically mean you see them, as depending on where you stay, you might need to make extra effort to spot them.
Where are the trulli in Puglia?
Basically, trulli in Puglia are concentrated in the Valle d'Itria. With its still expanses of olive trees as far as the eye can see, the Itria Valley is characterised by its red coloured soil, green olive groves and vineyards, and white trullo houses under a serene blue sky.
Also known as the Valley of the Trulli, it makes up part of the Provinces of Bari, Brindisi and Taranto, and comprises the Comuni of Alberobello (1), Carovigno, Castellana Grotte (4), Ceglie Messapica, Cisternino (2), Fasano (6), Locorotondo (3), Martina Franca, Noci, Ostuni (5), Putignano, San Michele Salentino, San Vito dei Normanni and Villa Castelli.
Fancy staying in a trullo? Check out these trully lovely trulli in Alberobello.
Trulli: Puglia's original building?
The origins of the trulli are shrouded in a blend of history and legend. These funny little structures date back to the 14th century, although their exact beginnings remain somewhat mysterious.
The most popular theory about their creation ties into a clever response to tax evasion. During the 15th century, the Kingdom of Naples imposed heavy taxes on permanent structures. The resourceful peasants of Puglia devised the trullo, a dry-stone building without mortar, which could be quickly dismantled and reassembled. This allowed them to avoid paying taxes on permanent dwellings, thus creating a practical yet ingenious solution to a challenging problem.
Similar buildings to trulli have been traced to Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Dalmatia, Sicily and Sardinia. Some of these date back to the third millennium BC, making it quite likely that this is an imported construction type.
There are different types of trulli
Pictured: a great example of a 'saracen' trullo in Puglia, which you can stay in!
In the countryside, trullo domes were built singly or in groups of up to five, or sometimes, in large farmyard clusters of a dozen or two dozen, but never for the occupancy of more than a single rural family.
But if you pay close attention when you travel around the Valle d'Itria, you'll spot a couple of different types of trulli.
First, you'll see the typical trullo, with its conical grey dry stone roof, whitewashed walls and carved pinnacles. These are practically everywhere.
But there is another type of trullo: the saracen trullo. Saracen trulli look a little different: instead of the conical roof, they have a stepped roof with a couple of flat tops, decreasing in size - almost like layers. Sometimes they have a little dome on top, often they'll have some lovely steps leading up the side of the building (see the picture above).
I actually couldn't find any proper history of saracen trulli online. But as far as I can tell, they're evidence of Puglia's Arabic past, when Saracen people were deported from Sicily to Lucera in Foggia by King Frederick II in the 1200s. In 1300, Giovanni Pipino da Barletta, count of Altamura, seized Lucera and exiled or sold into slavery its population, bringing an end to the medieval Muslim presence in Italy.
So, perhaps the Arabic Saracen people came up with the design of these trulli in some form - here's a great Wikipedia page on the history of Islam in Southern Italy if that's your thing.
Trulli: architectural points of interest
At first glance, the trullo’s defining feature is its conical roof. These roofs are made from local limestone ('chiancarelle') and consist of layers of progressively smaller stones, arranged in a way that each stone supports the one above it. This construction technique not only contributes to the trullo’s unique appearance but also provides excellent insulation against the region’s hot summers and cold winters. The walls, often several feet thick, further enhance this natural climate control.
The roofs of many trulli are adorned with symbolic whitewashed symbols - which you'll notice more of in Alberobello than the countryside of the Valle d'Itria. These range from simple crosses and hearts to more complex zodiac signs and pagan symbols, each thought to offer protection or good fortune to the inhabitants. At the peak of the conical roof sits a pinnacolo, a decorative stone often in the shape of a sphere, disk, or other geometric forms. These too have their own set of meanings and are believed to ward off evil spirits.
Inside, trulli are typically characterised by their small, cosy spaces. The thick walls and small windows create a cool, dim environment that offers respite from the blazing Mediterranean sun. The interiors are often minimalist, with a central living area that serves multiple purposes. Despite their simplicity, trulli are designed to maximize the use of space, with niches and alcoves built into the thick walls to serve as storage areas.
Alberobello: Puglia's Trulli capital of the world
No discussion of trulli would be complete without mentioning Alberobello, the trulli capital of the world. This small town, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, boasts over 1,500 trulli, creating a mesmerising landscape that attracts tourists from across the globe.
Walking through Alberobello is like stepping into another world. The Rione Monti district, in particular, is home to the highest concentration of trulli, with narrow winding streets flanked by these iconic whitewashed houses. Each trullo here is meticulously maintained, and many have been converted into charming shops, cafes, and accommodations, allowing visitors to experience the magic of trullo living firsthand.
The Trullo Sovrano, the largest trullo in Alberobello, stands out as a prime example of this unique architecture. Built in the 18th century, it spans two floors and showcases the ingenuity of trulli construction. Today, it serves as a museum, offering insight into the history and culture of these fascinating buildings.
You can stay in this monumental complex of trulli at Trullo Sovrano. View Corte Trullo Sovrano.
The cultural significance of trulli
Trulli are more than just an architectural curiosity; they are a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Puglian people. These structures reflect a way of life that is deeply connected to the land and the local community. The construction of trulli is a craft passed down through generations, with each builder contributing to the preservation of this unique heritage.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in trulli, driven by both locals and foreigners seeking to restore and preserve these historic structures. This renewed appreciation has sparked a renaissance in trulli restoration, blending traditional techniques with modern comforts.
Many restored trulli are now used as holiday homes, agriturismi (farm stays), and even boutique hotels, giving visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the Puglian countryside.
Take a look at some great trulli to stay in near the heart of Alberobello.
Trulli in Puglia: sustainable living
One of the most compelling aspects of trulli is their sustainable design. Long before sustainability became a global concern, trulli exemplified principles of eco-friendly living. The use of local materials, like limestone from Bari and Lecce, minimises the environmental impact of construction. The thick walls and conical roofs provide natural insulation, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Rainwater harvesting systems, which were commonly used in trulli, further enhance their environmental sustainability.
This eco-friendly approach is gaining recognition in the modern world, as more people seek sustainable living solutions. So despite their historical quirkiness, Puglia's trulli actually offer valuable lessons in how traditional building techniques can be adapted to meet contemporary needs, blending the wisdom of the past with the innovations of the present.
How can I see a trullo today?
For those eager to experience the charm of trulli firsthand, Puglia offers a wealth of opportunities. Beyond Alberobello, the Valle d'Itria is dotted with trulli, each offering a unique glimpse into this ancient way of life. Towns such as Locorotondo, Martina Franca, and Cisternino boast their own collections of trulli, each with its own character and charm.
Can I stay in trulli in Puglia?
Staying in a trullo can be a transformative experience. Many agriturismi and holiday rentals in the region offer accommodations in restored trulli, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquility and simplicity of these remarkable structures. Waking up in a trullo, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
For those with a passion for history and architecture, guided tours of trulli towns offer deep dives into the construction techniques, cultural significance, and stories behind these unique homes. Local guides, often descendants of trullo builders, share their knowledge and insights, enriching the visitor’s understanding and appreciation of this architectural marvel.
Find some fantastic trulli Puglia stays:
Preserving the past, building the future
As the world changes and modernizes, the trulli of Puglia stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional craftsmanship and sustainable living. Efforts to preserve and restore these structures are vital not only for maintaining their historical and cultural significance but also for inspiring future generations to value and protect their heritage.
Organisations and local communities in Puglia are actively involved in conservation projects, ensuring that the knowledge and skills required to build and maintain trulli are not lost. These initiatives also promote sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to appreciate the trulli without compromising their integrity or the natural beauty of the region.
The trulli of Puglia are more than just delightful cone-shaped houses; they're a symbol of ingenuity, resilience, and a deep connection to the land. As we look to the future, the lessons learned from these ancient structures can guide us toward more sustainable and harmonious ways of living.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply a traveller seeking authentic and unique experiences, Puglia's trulli offer a timeless journey into a world where past and present coexist in perfect harmony.
Need a map of Puglia?
If you have data roaming on your phone, that's great. But if that's prohibitively expensive, then check out these suggestions of great road maps and travel guides for your budget trip to Puglia, to help you get around easily.
What next?
Read some of the other Puglia-related blogs on this site, below, or check out the 7-day Puglia holiday itinerary for visitors flying in and out of Bari.
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