PUGLIA GAY GUIDE

Welcome to our Puglia gay guide, where you’ll find all the information you need for an unforgettable gay-friendly trip to Puglia. From beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine, to rich cultural heritage and a thriving LGBT+ community, Puglia has something to offer everyone. Our guide includes several suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your trip.

We’ll show you how to get here, whether by plane to Bari or Brindisi, or by train or bus for a more scenic route. When it comes to where to stay, we’ve got you covered with recommendations for gay-friendly accommodations in cities such as Bari, Lecce, and Taranto.

Explore Puglia’s beautiful beaches like Polignano a Mare, Gallipoli and Ostuni, and enjoy the nightlife in the gay-friendly bars, clubs and parties. Discover the unique culture of Puglia and indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Our guide includes all the information and suggested itineraries you need for an unforgettable trip to Puglia.

So, pack your bags and let’s get started on planning your dream gay-friendly getaway in Puglia with our Puglia gay guide! And – of course – check

HEADING TO PUGLIA: A (GAY) GUIDE TO AIR, TRAIN, BUS, FERRY AND CAR TRAVEL OPTIONS

Getting to Puglia has never been easier, with a variety of travel options available to suit your needs and budget. Whether you prefer to fly, take the train, or hit the road, our Puglia gay guide will give you the right tips!

Getting to Puglia by Air

The two main airports in Puglia are Bari and Brindisi, both of which offer regular flights from major European cities. From Bari’s Palese Airport, you can reach many destinations within Europe, other cities in Italy and some international destinations. Brindisi airport is mostly dedicated to low-cost airlines, so you can easily find a budget-friendly option to reach Puglia. Some of the major airlines that serve Bari Airport are Alitalia, Ryanair, easyJet and WizzAir. From Brindisi Airport you can find WizzAir, Ryanair and Neos are some of the airlines that will bring you in Puglia. It’s worth to mention that soon flights from new international airport of Grottaglie also be available. Both airports are well connected to the main cities of Puglia by bus or taxi, and there are also several car rental agencies available.

Getting to Puglia by Train

Another great option for getting to Puglia is by train. Puglia has a good railway infrastructure that connects the main cities with Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, Naples and other cities of Italy. The trains are comfortable, safe and a good option if you want to enjoy the beautiful Apulian countryside. Trenitalia and Italo are the two main operators that serve Puglia. You can reach Bari, Lecce, Taranto, Foggia and many smaller towns by train. Some of the destinations you can find with direct train from Rome, Florence and Milan are Bari and Lecce.

Getting to Puglia by Bus

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider taking the bus. There are several bus companies that operate daily services between the major cities in Puglia and the rest of Italy. The trip might take longer, but it’s an affordable way to travel and you’ll have the opportunity to take in the beautiful Apulian countryside. Some of the companies that operate in Puglia are FlixBus, Marino Autolinee and SITA.

Getting to Puglia by Ferry

Puglia is also well connected by sea and you can reach some destinations by ferry. From Bari, for example, you can reach Durres (Albania), and Bar (Montenegro) with ANEK lines and Venezia Lines. From Brindisi you can reach Igoumenitsa, Patras, and Corfu (Greece) with ANEK-Superfast and Minoan Lines. This can be a good option if you are already in Adriatic sea or if you have planned a multi-destination holiday.

Getting to Puglia by Car

Finally, if you prefer to drive, Puglia is easily accessible by car via the A14 and A16 highways. The A14 connects Bologna to Bari, passing through the cities of Ancona and Pescara. The A16 connects Naples to Canosa di Puglia, passing through Benevento, Foggia and Barletta. This is a good option if you plan to explore more of the region, as it will give you the flexibility to move around at your own pace. Just remember that during the summertime traffic in Puglia can be heavy, so plan your route accordingly. Road signposting in Italy is good, and finding your way around shouldn’t be a problem. Also, there are several parking areas in the towns and beaches where you can leave your car safely. Remember that you have to pay tolls on the highway and to have with you all the necessary documents like driving license, ID, car registration, insurance and so on. Live traffic, routing and tolling informations in English are provided here by Autostrade per l’Italia.

No matter how you choose to get here, our Puglia gay guide will help you make the most of your journey and ensure that you arrive in Puglia ready to start exploring all that this beautiful region has to offer. Whether you’re planning to spend your days lounging on the beach, exploring charming towns and villages, or indulging in local cuisine and culture, Puglia has something for everyone.

EXPLORING PUGLIA GAY GUIDE: TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS WITHIN THE REGION

Once you’ve arrived in Puglia, there are a variety of options for getting around and exploring the region. Whether you prefer to travel by train, bus, taxi, or bike, our Puglia gay guide has got you covered.

Exploring Puglia by Train

• Puglia has an extensive railway network that connects the main cities and towns of the region.
• The regional trains operated by Ferrovie Sud Est, Ferrovie Appulo Lucane, Ferrovie del Gargano, Ferrovie Nord Barese and of course the national carrier Trenitalia are a great way to explore Puglia’s charming towns and villages, and take in the beautiful Apulian countryside.
• These regional trains usually run frequently and have a good coverage of the whole region, the tickets are inexpensive and the journey is comfortable and safe.
• Ferrovie Sud Est operates mostly in the Bari and Brindisi province, Ferrovie Appulo Lucane connects Basilicata with Puglia, Ferrovie del Gargano connects Foggia and Manfredonia with Mattinata and Vieste, Ferrovie Nord Barese connects Bari with the Northern area of the region.

Exploring Puglia by Bus

• Puglia also has an extensive bus network, with many companies operating services throughout the region.
• Some of the companies that run services in Puglia include Miccolis, Cotrap and Sita.
• Taking the bus is a budget-friendly option, and it’s a great way to see more of the region and take in the sights and sounds of Puglia.
• The busses are reliable and the schedule is frequent, you can reach almost every destination in Puglia. But in the smaller towns, it might be less frequent, so it is worth to check the schedule before you plan your trip.

Exploring Puglia by Taxi

• If you prefer a more comfortable and flexible way of getting around, you can also consider taking a taxi.
• Taxis are widely available throughout Puglia and can be a great way to travel if you’re in a hurry or if you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation.
• You can find taxis at the airport, train station and most of the cities, or you can call a taxi company to have a cab pick you up at your location.
• However, in the smaller towns it might be difficult to find a taxi, so it’s always a good idea to book one in advance.

Exploring Puglia by Car rental or NCC (Noleggio con conducente)

• Renting a car can give you the freedom to explore Puglia on your own terms and at your own pace.
• There are several car rental agencies in the region where you can rent a car, both at the airports and the train stations.
• An alternative to the traditional car rental could be the NCC (noleggio con conducente), a service where you can rent a car with a driver, this can be a good solution if you don’t feel confortable driving in Italy or if you prefer to relax and enjoy the view.

Exploring Puglia by Bike

• Finally, if you prefer to explore Puglia on two wheels, you can consider renting a bike.
• Puglia is home to many beautiful cycle routes and bike-friendly roads, and biking is a great way to get around and see the region.
• You can find bike rental services in many towns and cities, or even rent a bike-sharing one, and there are many well-marked bike routes to explore.
• You can find many itineraries along the Adriatic and Ionian coast, in the countryside or through the historical centers of the towns.

WHERE TO STAY: A GUIDE TO GAY FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION IN PUGLIA

Puglia offers a wide variety of accommodation options for visitors, from traditional hotels to unique and unusual places to stay. Our Puglia gay guide will help you find the perfect place to stay for your holiday, whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a more budget-friendly option.

Hotels

Puglia has a great range of hotels to choose from, whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious 5-star hotel. You can find hotels in the main towns and cities such as Bari, Brindisi, Lecce, Foggia, as well as in smaller towns like Ostuni, Polignano, Trani and many more. Some hotels are located near the beaches, while others are situated in the countryside or in the historical centers of towns. You can find hotels with different levels of comfort and price, from the classic hotel to the most modern design hotel. They are equipped with all the amenities you need to make your stay as comfortable as possible, from air conditioning to free wifi. Moreover, many hotels in Puglia are pet-friendly, so you don’t have to leave your furry friends at home.

Albergo Diffuso

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience, you might want to consider staying in an albergo diffuso, which is a scattered hotel concept almost unique to Puglia. This type of accommodation is typically located in restored historic buildings, and it’s a great way to experience the traditional way of life in Puglia. Each room or apartment has its own personality and style and is equipped with all the amenities you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Many albergo diffuso are equipped with swimming pool, gardens and terraces where you can relax and enjoy your holiday.

Bed & Breakfast and Vacation Rentals

Puglia is also home to a wide variety of bed and breakfast options, as well as vacation rentals. This type of accommodation is perfect for those looking for a more private and intimate experience. You can find bed and breakfast in the center of the towns, in the countryside or near the beaches. Vacation rentals are a great solution for families or groups of friends, as they usually offer more space and privacy than a hotel. They are equipped with kitchen and living room, where you can enjoy your holiday in total autonomy. Many vacation rentals have private terrace or garden where you can relax and enjoy your holiday.

Masseria and Villas

A masseria is a traditional Apulian farmhouse , and staying in one is a great way to experience Puglia’s rural heritage. Masserie often offer charming and rustic accommodation, with many featuring beautiful gardens and swimming pools. Many masserie offer the possibility to taste typical Apulian food and wine. The owners of the masserie often produce olive oil, wine and other products that you can taste and buy during your stay. Alternatively, if you are looking for a more luxurious and exclusive experience, you might want to consider renting a villa. Villas in Puglia come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re a great option if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family. They often have private swimming pool, garden and terrace where you can relax and enjoy your holiday.

Unique Accommodations

Puglia also offers a wide range of unique and unusual accommodations, such as trulli, glamping, the Sassi, and staying on a boat. These options are perfect for those looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Trulli

Traditional Apulian conical stone houses, which are characterized by the cone-shaped roof and dry-wall construction. You can find trulli in the region of Valle d’Itria, particularly in the towns of Alberobello, Locorotondo and Martina Franca. A stay in a trullo will give you the opportunity to experience the traditional Apulian life in an original and authentic way.

Glamping

Luxury camping, where you can enjoy nature in a comfortable and luxurious way. Puglia has several glamping facilities where you can enjoy the beauty of Puglia’s nature while staying in comfortable tents or yurts.

The Sassi

Ancient cave dwellings, where you can stay in an apartment carved into the rock. The Sassi are located in the town of Matera, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Staying in the Sassi will give you the opportunity to experience life in an ancient cave dwelling and learn more about the town’s rich history.

Staying on a boat

A unique and unforgettable experience, you can rent a boat or a boat with a skipper and explore Puglia’s coastline. You can discover the beauty of Puglia’s coastline, visit the most beautiful and famous beaches and enjoy the crystal clear sea.

Puglia Gay Guide: LGBT+ Friendly Accommodation

Puglia is a very gay-friendly region and you will find many accommodations that are welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. From hotels, B&Bs, vacation rentals and unique accommodations, you will find various options that are respectful, inclusive and open-minded. It’s always a good idea to check for LGBT+ friendly accommodation options when booking, as this will ensure that you feel comfortable and safe throughout your stay.

In summary, Puglia offers a wide variety of accommodation options, whether you’re looking for a traditional hotel, a unique and unusual place to stay, or a LGBT+ friendly accommodation. The options are plenty and you can find something that fits your needs and budget. No matter where you choose to stay, our gay-friendly guide will help you make the most of your holiday in Puglia.

Whether you’re looking to stay near the beaches, in the countryside, or in the historical centers of towns, Puglia has something to offer for everyone. From charming and rustic masserie, to luxurious and exclusive villas, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options to suit your needs and preferences. Additionally, Puglia’s unique accommodations such as trulli, glamping, the Sassi, and staying on a boat, make it a truly special destination, with many opportunities for an unforgettable and unique experience.

EATING IN PUGLIA: A GASTRONOMIC ADVENTURE

Puglia is a region of Italy known for its delicious and authentic cuisine. From traditional trattorie to modern ristoranti, street food to bracerie, and even international and ethnic cuisine, Puglia has something to offer for every taste and budget. Our Puglia gay guide will help you navigate the region’s diverse culinary scene and make the most of your gastronomic experience.

pasta fresca

Puglia Gay Guide: Restaurants and Trattorias

Puglia offers a wide range of dining options, from casual trattorias to elegant ristorantes. In both, you can expect to find traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes to try include:

• Crudo di mare: A dish made with raw fish, it’s typically served with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon and some herbs, it’s a must try in the Bari area. This is a traditional way to eat fish in the area, showcasing the quality and freshness of the fish caught in the Adriatic sea.
• Orecchiette: A type of pasta typical of the Puglia region, it’s shaped like small ears and it’s often served with a variety of different sauces.
• Fave e cicoria: A traditional dish made with fava beans and chicory, it’s often served as a side dish or a starter
• Polpo alla luciana: Octopus is a staple in Puglia’s cuisine, it’s often prepared in many different ways, but the traditional one is to braise it with tomatoes, olives, and capers.

These are just a few examples of the dishes you can expect to find on a typical Pugliese menu, but there’s plenty more to discover. When looking for a restaurant or trattoria, seek out places that use fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods for the best experience.

Bracerie

Puglia is known for its delicious meats, and one of the best ways to try them is at a “Braceria.” Bracerie are typically family-run butcher shops that also serve as casual eateries, where you can enjoy a wide range of grilled meats and other traditional dishes. Many bracerie are located in the countryside, surrounded by olive groves, and they’re open only during the evenings. Some of the most popular items on the menu include:

• Carne alla brace: Grilled meats such as pork, beef, and lamb are a staple of the braceria experience. They’re typically seasoned with just salt, pepper and a drizzle of olive oil, allowing the quality of the meat to shine through.
• Salsiccia (Zampina): Grilled sausages are another popular option, made with a variety of different meats and spices, depending on the recipe.
• Involtini: Thin slices of meat, rolled around a filling of cheese and herbs, it’s a typical dish of the region. Some of the most popular involtini are Torcinelli and Gnumireddi made with offal meat such as tripe or lungs.

Bracerie is a unique and special dining experience, a perfect opportunity to enjoy a traditional and authentic meal, often accompanied by a selection of local wines. Enjoying a meal at a braceria is a must-do for meat lovers visiting Puglia.

Photo By Dogiulio via Wikimedia Commons

Street Food

Puglia’s street food scene is not to be missed. From savory street foods like “panzerotti” (deep-fried savory pastries filled with tomato and mozzarella cheese) to traditional sweet treats like “pasticciotto” (a sweet pastry filled with custard cream). Street food is a perfect option if you’re looking for a quick and casual dining experience, and it’s a great way of sampling a variety of local dishes at a reasonable price.

Some of the most popular street food options in Puglia include:

• Panzerotti: A delicious fried dumpling filled with mozzarella and tomato, it’s one of the most popular street food in Puglia.
• Friselle: a traditional street food, made from a hard and crispy round bread, it’s often dipped in water and then topped with tomatoes, olives, and anchovies, or eaten with a variety of different toppings.
• Pasticciotto: A traditional Pugliese pastry filled with a sweet cream, typically vanilla, or chocolate. Focaccia barese: a traditional focaccia, typically topped with tomatoes, onions, olives and anchovies, it’s a savory street food and a common option in the region
• Bocconotti: a small pastry typical of the region, it’s filled with a variety of ingredients, such as ricotta, cream, chocolate or lemon, depending on the area.
• Taralli: a traditional Pugliese snack, made with flour, olive oil and wine. They’re savory or sweet, and it’s often eaten as a snack or as an appetizer
• Pettole: fried dough balls, it’s similar to a doughnut, typically served with a sprinkle of sugar.

You can find these street foods and many more throughout Puglia, typically sold at small street vendors and local markets. They’re a great way to try some of the local specialties without breaking the bank.

Italian and World Food

Puglia is a melting pot of different cultures, and its food reflects this diversity. In recent years, an increasing number of ethnic restaurants have opened in the region, offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world. Some of the most popular ethnic cuisines found in Puglia include:

• Indian cuisine, with a strong presence of vegetarian options
• Chinese cuisine, mostly in the bigger cities
• Greek cuisine, especially in the Salento area where there’s a strong Greek influence.
• North African cuisine, with a strong presence of couscous and tagines.

In addition to these ethnic cuisines, you can also find a variety of Italian regional cuisine represented, such as Sicilian, Neapolitan, or Sardinian. The Puglia region, as well as its food, is a melting pot of different cultures that offers a unique and exciting dining experience. So, while you’re in Puglia, don’t forget to explore the many different ethnic and regional cuisines on offer.

Check our Puglia Gay tour!

8 days to discover its best

PUGLIA GAY GUIDE: FOCUS ON WINE!

Puglia is a very important wine-producing region, with a long history and tradition of producing high-quality wines. The region is known for its variety of grape varieties, ideal climate for vine cultivation and its long tradition of winemaking.

Pugliese wines are characterized by great versatility and are suitable to accompany a wide range of dishes. The red wines are powerful and structured, while the white wines are fresh and fragrant.

• Primitivo: The Primitivo is one of the most famous wines from Puglia. It has an intense ruby red color and an intense aroma of ripe fruit, spices and coffee notes. The taste is warm, soft and velvety, with a long and persistent finish.
• Susumaniello: This native grape variety has been recently revalued, with producers starting to produce high-quality wines with this variety. Susumaniello has an intense ruby red color, intense aromas of red fruit and spices, with soft and balanced tannins.
• Negramaro: Negramaro is one of the most important grape varieties in Puglia, originating from the Salento area. It has an intense red color with violet reflections and an intense aroma of red fruit, spices, and coffee. The taste is warm, soft and velvety, with a long and persistent finish.
• Nero di Troia: The Nero di Troia grape variety is native to Puglia, it has an intense ruby red color, with intense aromas of red fruit, spices, and coffee. It has soft and balanced tannins and a long persistent finish.
• Aleatico: It is a liqueur wine, with an intense aroma of ripe red fruit, spices and coffee notes. The taste is warm, soft and velvety with a long finish.
• Verdeca: The Verdeca grape variety is a white wine variety grown in Puglia. It produces wines that are light, bright and fruity, with aromas and flavors of green apples and citrus fruit, with a crisp and refreshing acidity.
• Bianco d’Alessano: The Bianco d’Alessano is a white wine from Puglia, from the area of Alezano. It has a bright straw yellow color with greenish reflections, the aroma is intense and fruity with notes of white flowers, pear, and apple. On the palate is dry, fresh, and harmonious.

These are just some of the many wines that Puglia has to offer, but they are among the most famous and representative of the region. If you’re planning a visit to Puglia and you’re a wine lover, make sure to try some of these wines and discover the rich and diverse wine culture of the region. You can also visit some wineries and taste the wines directly from the source, meet the producers and learn about the history and tradition of winemaking in Puglia.

It’s worth noting that, in Puglia there are also DOC and DOCG wines like Salice Salentino, Castel del Monte and Primitivo di Manduria, this are wines with a higher quality control and a strict production standard. This can be a good option for those looking for a more premium wine experience.

Puglia is not only known for its wines, but also for its traditional spirits. One of the most famous traditional spirit is the Nocino, a sweet and aromatic liqueur made from green walnuts. It’s usually produced in June, when the walnuts are still green and soft, and it’s left to macerate in alcohol for several months with the addition of spices and sugar. It has a unique, complex and rich flavor with notes of nut, cinnamon, vanilla and caramel.

Another popular spirit from Puglia is Limoncello, a lemon-based liqueur that is popular all over Italy, including Puglia. Limoncello is made with the zest of lemons, steeped in alcohol and sugar. It’s traditionally served as a digestif and it’s perfect to enjoy after a meal, thanks to its fresh and tangy taste. Puglia is also famous for its homemade spirits, produced with local herbs and fruits.

If you visit the region, you can try these and other traditional spirits in local bars and restaurants, or you can purchase them in liquor stores, groceries and supermarkets.

DISCOVERING THE VIBRANT TRADITIONS OF PUGLIA: A GAY GUIDE

Puglia is a region known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. From ancient rituals to modern festivals, the traditions of Puglia are deeply woven into the fabric of daily life. Here are some of the most notable traditions of Puglia:

The Festivals of Fire

The Festivals of Fire are an ancient tradition that takes place in several towns of Puglia during the winter, with the most famous being the “Fanove” in Castellana Grotte and the “Focara” in Novoli.

The “Fanove” festival in Castellana Grotte takes place on January 11th and features large bonfires lit in the streets. This festival commemorates the end of the plague of 1691 that had affected the town and can also be seen as a way to celebrate the end of the year and renew hope for the next one.

Castellana Grotte, Le Fanove

Similarly, the “Focara” festival in Novoli takes place on January 16th, 17th, 18th and it’s considered a unique way to say goodbye to the old year, while also celebrating Saint Anthony Abbot. It’s a religious celebration, with bonfires that are lit in the streets, and people carry torches, dance and sing around them. Both of the festivals are not to be missed and provide an excellent opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Puglia.

Patron Saints Festival

Puglia is home to many religious festivals, but two of the most important are San Nicola in Bari and Sant’Oronzo in Lecce. Both celebrations are held in honor of the respective patron saints of the cities and are characterized by processions, fireworks, and street performances.

San Nicola is celebrated on December 6th. While Mass is being celebrated within the walls of the historic centre, a typical spectacle of the tradition of the festival takes shape along the main streets of the city: the Nicolaian torchlight procession. The long march, aimed at the fittest faithful who intend to commemorate the Saint in a more dynamic way, constellates the city with bright torches starting from the 2 June Park, in the heart of the city, and reaching the churchyard of the Basilica. It is a real city pilgrimage in honor of the Saint.

Sant’Oronzo is celebrated in Lecce on August 27th. The statues of the Patron Saints, with the silver statue of Sant’Oronzo at the head, are carried in procession by the faithful and cross the whole city, accompanied by religious songs and prayers, which alternate with the music of the band.

The Night of Taranta

The Night of Taranta is a music festival. It takes place in the month of August, in an itinerant form in various squares of Salento. The festival is dedicated to the traditional music of the region, Pizzica, which is said to have originated as a way to cure the bite of the tarantula spider. The festival features performances by local and international musicians, and is an opportunity to experience the unique cultural heritage of the region.

Easter traditions

Puglia is home to many colorful Easter traditions. One of the most famous is the “Sacred representation of the Passion of Christ,” which is a reenactment of the last days of Jesus’ life that takes place in the city of Molfetta. The performance, which is held on Good Friday, features over 100 actors and is considered one of the most important religious events in the region. Another unique aspect of Easter celebrations in Puglia are the “Cruciferi” and “Flagellanti” processions that take place in the city of Taranto.

The “Cruciferi” are individuals who carry large wooden crosses through the streets on Good Friday, while the “Flagellanti” are men who participate in self-flagellation as a form of penance. Both groups are dressed in traditional robes and hoods, and their processions are accompanied by solemn music. The processions start at the city’s churches and make their way through the streets, stopping at various points for religious ceremonies and prayers. The “Flagellanti” processions are a particularly striking sight, as they are known for their intense and emotional performances.

Overall, the Easter traditions in Puglia are a blend of religious and cultural customs that are deeply ingrained in the region’s history and are an important part of the community’s identity. It is important to respect the diversity of cultural and religious traditions, but also to be mindful of the potential for harm and suffering in certain practices.

PUGLIA GAY GUIDE: A LOOK INTO ITS TRADITIONAL CRAFTS

Puglia is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts. One of the most well-known and beloved crafts in Puglia is ceramics, with a particular focus on the town of Grottaglie.

Ceramics from Grottaglie

The town of Grottaglie, located in the province of Taranto, is famous for its ceramics. The town has a long history of ceramic production, dating back to the 18th century. Ceramic artists in Grottaglie use a variety of techniques to create beautiful and unique pieces, including pottery, terracotta, and ceramics decorated with vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Cartapesta from Lecce

Lecce, a town located in the province of Lecce, is renowned for its cartapesta (papier-mâché) crafts. Cartapesta is a traditional craft that involves creating sculptures and decorative objects from layers of paper and glue. Lecce’s cartapesta artists are known for their skill and attention to detail, creating a wide range of products from small figurines to large statues.

Maioliche from Laterza

Laterza is a town located in the province of Taranto, is known for its maioliche. Maioliche is the traditional Italian name for tin-glazed earthenware, an art form that is known for its use of bright colors and intricate designs. The maioliche of Laterza are famous for their high-quality craftsmanship and beautiful designs, that makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

Whistles from Rutigliano

The town of Rutigliano, located in the province of Bari, is renowned for its traditional craft of creating whistles. These whistles are made of clay and shaped by hand, and are known for their unique sound and beautiful design. They are traditionally used in local folk music and are a popular souvenir for visitors to the region.

Stone craft from Lecce

Lecce is also known for its traditional stone crafts. The town has a long history of stone carving, dating back to the Roman era. Local artisans use the local limestone, called “Lecce Stone”, to create beautiful sculptures, fountains, and architectural elements.

Handmade baskets

Handmade baskets are another traditional craft in Puglia. The baskets are made using natural materials such as willow and rushes, and are often decorated with colorful patterns and designs. They are used for a variety of purposes, from carrying fruits and vegetables to storing household items.

Overall, Puglia is rich in traditional crafts and the artisans who continue to create them today. These crafts not only represent the rich cultural heritage of the region, but they also provide a source of livelihood and are a way to preserve the region’s history and tradition.