Puglia is certainly one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, where the artistic and cultural heritage blends perfectly with the landscapes and natural beauty. For this reason, in fact, “the heel of Italy” can boast beautiful testimonies of past eras, some of which are protected worldwide. Discover, then, What are the 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Puglia? and why visit them.
Castle of the Mount
Castel del Monte, near Andria, is among the most emblematic, but also mysterious monuments in Italy. Declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996this unique building is known for its octagonal shape and its peculiar history, which obviously dates back to the great Emperor Frederick II.
Built in the 13th century, Castel del Monte is a masterpiece of medieval architecture that integrates stylistic elements Gothic, Islamic, Norman and Classical, creating a harmonious whole that stimulates both the eye and curiosity. The debate on the real function of the building is still open: for some a fort with symbolic power, for others a temple of knowledge. For reach Castel del Monteit is possible to arrive by car via the state road that connects Andria to the castle.
The Trulli of Alberobello
The Trulli of Alberobello represent one of the most fascinating symbols of Puglia and were recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. These peculiar dry stone constructionswith their conical roofs, are an incredible historical testimony, as they appear to be the evolution of the Greek tholos.
Although they are present throughout the surrounding area, Alberobello certainly is the most iconic country. Here you will find entire neighborhoods with trullo houses, often with shops, restaurants and hotels housed inside the typical white buildings. To get to the town, just follow the SS172 or take a local train.
The Sanctuary of Saint Michael the Archangel
The Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo a Mount Saint Angelo It is another jewel of Puglia, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2011 as part of the site “The Lombards in Italy. Places of Power”. This sacred place, located on the top of Gargano, is an ancient center of worship, but not only.
According to tradition, the church was consecrated directly by the Archangel Michael, becoming an unmissable place for medieval pilgrims. In its upper part, the church presents the well-known Romanesque portal with the bell tower; while the lower part is characterized by the cave and the crypt. To reach the Sanctuary of San Michele Arcangelo, you can take either the state road from San Severo or from the Adriatic coast.
Umbra Forest
The Umbra Forest, located in the heart of the Gargano National Park in Puglia, is a true natural treasure and it has been part of the UNESCO heritage since 2017. This vast green area is famous for its biodiversity and the ancient species of flora and fauna it hosts, some of which are endemic and found nowhere else in the world. This is the reason why it entered the site of “Ancient primordial beech forests of the Carpathians and other regions of Europe”.
The name “Umbra” comes from Latin and means “shady“, referring to the dense vegetation that characterizes this place. The forest was a safe refuge for many species during the various ice ages and today represents one of the best examples of Mediterranean forest in Europe. To get here, just follow the road that leads from Vico del Gargano leads to Monte Sant’Angelo.
