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Alberobello is a small town and commune located in the Apulia region of southern Italy.
Situated approximately 50 kilometers southeast of the provincial capital, Bari, Alberobello is nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Itria Valley.
The renowned architectural feature known as the trullo derives its name from the Italian phrase “beautiful tree.”
These distinctive structures, characterized by their cone-shaped roofs and whitewashed limestone walls, are prevalent in the town of Alberobello in southern Italy’s Apulia region.
It holds the distinction of being one of I Borghi più belli d’Italia (“The most beautiful villages of Italy”).
The population of around 10,237 inhabitants as of 2022 and total area of 40.82 km2.
Rolling hills surround the town, covered in olive groves, vineyards, and orchards, creating a serene setting.
The region has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers, enhancing its allure.
The town is renowned for its unique architecture, characterized by the presence of trulli, traditional limestone dwellings with conical roofs.
Additionally, Alberobello’s historic center and popular landmarks boast a dense concentration of these iconic structures.
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The trulli of Alberobello
These whitewashed structures, with their conical roofs made of overlapping limestone slabs, are a testament to the ingenuity of the craftsmen who built them.
The roofs, often adorned with mystical symbols painted in white ash, add to the magical allure of the town.
Moreover, each trullo is constructed without the use of mortar, with the stones carefully stacked to form a sturdy yet flexible structure.
Inside, the interiors are cozy and compact, typically comprising a single circular room with a central fireplace.
Trulli converted into shops, restaurants, and guest accommodations offer visitors a unique historical experience.
The Historical Streets with Popular Landmarks
The Rione Monti district, home to the majority of the town’s trulli, is particularly enchanting.
Moreover, the narrow lanes offer intricate architecture and hidden gems around every corner.
One of the highlights is the Trullo Sovrano, the only two-story trullo in the town. This unique structure offers insight into the daily life of the inhabitants centuries ago, with period furnishings and artifacts on display.
Additionally, for those interested in delving deeper into the history of Alberobello, the Trullo Siamese Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the construction techniques of the trulli.
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History of Alberobello
The history of Alberobello dates back to the 15th century when the area was colonized by the Counts of Conversano.
However, it was not until the 17th century that the distinctive trulli began to emerge.
Legend has it that the unusual architecture was born out of necessity rather than design. Local farmers sought to evade taxation imposed by the Kingdom of Naples on permanent dwellings.
Additionally, the dry stone construction of the trulli allowed them to be dismantled quickly, presenting a temporary appearance to tax collectors.