Thousands of tourists flock to Puglia each year to explore the enchanting Trulli of Alberobello. But what exactly are trulli? The trullo (an Italian word derived from the ancient Greek τροῦλλος, trûllos, meaning “dome”) is a type of conical dry stone construction traditional to central and southern Puglia. Boasting over 1,500 trulli that have been part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1996, Alberobello, located in the province of Bari, stands as the undisputed capital of these unique structures.
This unparalleled form of architecture was originally constructed as temporary shelters in the countryside or as permanent homes for farmers. It represents an evolution of the prehistoric thòlos model, dating from between 1500 and 1250 B.C., which can be found in various regions of Southern Italy and the Mediterranean. Despite the discovery of archaeological finds from the Bronze Age in the areas where trulli developed, there are no trulli particularly old. The oldest ones still standing date back to the late 1600s.
History of the Trulli of Alberobello
The primitive trulli of Puglia were built by farmers and shepherds using stones gathered locally, and they consisted of a single room. Over time, the design slowly evolved into multi-room dwellings, with a main room and several smaller peripheral spaces such as alcoves.
The spread of trulli was driven by the phenomenon of feudal land fragmentation, which led to scattered settlements in the countryside and the agricultural exploitation of previously uncultivated lands, necessitating the construction of shelters for each plot.
The construction of these dry stone shelters, without the use of hydraulic binders like mortar, was due to the need to quickly demolish them in case of inspections by the Spanish viceroy of the Kingdom of Naples. This was a way to circumvent the Pragmatica de Baronibus, a law in force until 1700 that required authorizations and taxes for new settlements. As the saying still goes in Italy: “fatta la legge, trovato l’inganno” (literally, “law made, deception found”).
Structure of the Trulli
Upon reflection, the Trulli of Alberobello can be seen as prototypes of modular constructions that had their boom in the 20th century with the advent of rationalist architecture. An interesting characteristic is their high thermal inertia, due to the great thickness of the walls combined with the very small number and size of openings (often just the entrance door and, at most, a tiny window). This ensures good heat retention inside during winter and mitigates heat peaks in summer.
The load-bearing walls are topped with a pseudo-dome that serves as the roof. This consists of a self-supporting structure made of concentric rings of horizontal slabs arranged in steps as they rise, with each complete circle statically balanced with the ones below. This inner layer of thicker limestone slabs is completed by the outer layer, forming the actual roof with thinner slabs, culminating in a keystone often carved with esoteric, spiritual, or apotropaic decorative elements.
From the perspective of interior space usage, the trullo was originally designed with only one habitable floor. Some wooden beams, placed transversely at the top and still visible in some trulli, never had a structural function but were used to hang food, supplies, utensils, or tools. There is only one two-story trullo, the so-called Trullo Sovrano.
What to See in Alberobello
If you wish to immerse yourself in the charm of Alberobello, the best approach is to embark on a tour of the trulli, ideally with a guide who can unveil secrets that would otherwise remain hidden. For those who prefer to wander independently, the friendliness of the locals is a reliable resource, as they are always eager to showcase the interior of these extraordinary structures.
Alberobello’s compact size makes it an easily walkable town. All the must-see spots are within short distances, accessible by foot through enchanting alleys and scenic viewpoints perfect for photography. Here are 5 unmissable stops:
- Trullo Sovrano: The only two-story trullo, furnished with original early 20th-century furniture.
- Rione Monti: The most renowned neighborhood in Alberobello, featuring around 1,000 trulli. Here, you can truly get lost in the quest for the perfect photo. For an exceptional shot, visit the Siamese Trulli: two cones fused at the center, symbolizing the legendary love and hate story between two brothers.
- Rione Aia Piccola: The smallest neighborhood in Alberobello’s historic center, with approximately 400 residential trulli. Here, don’t expect to find shops or restaurants.
- Casa Pezzolla: A complex of 15 interconnected trulli that houses the Museum of the Territory, offering free admission.
- Belvedere Santa Lucia: The city’s most picturesque observation point. At sunset, it provides breathtaking photo opportunities.
What to Eat in Alberobello
If, during your visit to the Trulli of Alberobello, you want to indulge in an authentic food experience, we recommend savoring these local specialties that will provide you with a true taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage:
- First Course: Orecchiette with turnip tops and salted anchovies, a classic Apulian dish bursting with robust flavors.
- Main Course: Bombette di carne, delectable small pork rolls filled with cheese and aromatic herbs, a true delight for meat lovers.
- Dessert: Pettole, irresistible balls of leavened dough fried to golden perfection, offering a delightful crunch.
- Bonus: Barattiere, a unique melon with characteristics that bridge the gap between cucumber and melon. This typical summer fruit is a staple on Puglian tables and is usually enjoyed raw or in salads. Many prefer it over cucumber for its greater digestibility and its sweet note that adds a refreshing touch to the palate.