Belvedere sui Trulli, Alberobello

Alberobello was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, representing an extraordinary example of construction using prehistoric techniques that have survived intact and still function in the modern world. A "trullo" is a small limestone dwelling, built with dry stone walls, rough-hewn limestone boulders collected from the surrounding fields and topped with a characteristic conical roof. Souvenir stores, B&Bs, bars and restaurants enliven your visit to Alberobello. The dazzling light reflected off the white walls of the trulli and the intertwining narrow streets create a unique, fairy-tale atmosphere, making this a truly special place in the world. The journey continues to Matera, one of the most spectacular places in Italy. It is amazing to think that less than 70 years ago some 15,000 people, mostly farmers, were still living in caves with no natural light, ventilation, running water or electricity. Today Matera is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been designated European Capital of Culture in 2019. Its ancient quarters, known as *sassi*, are an intricate system of caves carved into the limestone rock, overlooking a deep ravine. As you stroll through, you can admire a complex maze of stone pathways and stairways, enhanced by craft stores, cafes and ice cream parlors.

Explore the city center on our Alberobello walking tour: together with Antonio, a professional guide, discover the magnificence of one of the world's most fascinating cities and its centuries-old heritage ,with a leisurely, relaxed stroll among the Trulli, typical dwellings of the Messapian peoples who inhabited central Apulia from the eighth century until the arrival of the Romans. We will enter Angelo's trullo, the oldest in Alberobello. We will stop at Giuseppe's bakery to savour our typical focaccia freshly baked, the right charge to continue the city tour. We will discover together the wonderful Belvedere Terrace and the neighborhoods of Aia Piccola and Rione Monti, where we can admire the typical architecture of local homes. Among the city's trulli and alleys, until we reach the trullo-shaped church of Sant'Antonio. Near here we will stop again to visit the characteristic store, where you will have the chance to taste the typical "burrata". .We cannot end our tour without sharing a delicious homemade ice cream made with patience and dedication in a quaint ice cream parlour inside a trullo.