Beautiful Puglia: trulli, wine and UNESCO heritage

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera is one of Italy’s most important historical cities, with dazzling stone buildings and ancient caves that feel like taking a step back in time. The ancient ‘Sassi’ - the mountainside caves - date back to the Paleolithic period, and are said to have housed inhabitants for over 7000 years. In recent years Matera has transformed itself from its poverty-stricken past and has made a name for itself as a hip destination, and visitors can enjoy modern bars and restaurants and even stay the night in a cave hotel.

Conical roofs top the tiny whitewashed stone houses - known as trulli - that line the hillside in Alberobello, a truly unique town that appears straight out of a fairytale. Boasting UNESCO World Heritage status and dating as far back as the 14th century, the homes are decorated with religious and astrological symbols and many are still inhabited by locals, though some are used for bars, shops and even a museum. Visit as a day trip from Bari or choose to spend the night in a trullo for a fascinating experience and an insight into the past.