Ostuni, Puglia
Ostuni is located in the province of Brindisi, in Puglia, the heel of Italy. It is the probably most famous as the 'white town', due to the typical whitewash on all the buildings. It sits proudly on top of a hill and has magnificent views down to the Adriatic coast.
The tradition of whitewashing the buildings dates back to medieval times and assists in providing light into the narrow streets and small enclosures typical of medieval construction. During the plage the town survived well as the whitewashing was a way to prevent it from spreading.
Apart from being an major tourist attraction, Ostuni is an important producer of olio, wine and almonds, from the agricultural side to the production of the final product.
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For tourists there are many aspects to enjoy from the views, the excellent beaches only 8km away to the historical importance and architecture in the town. Be sure to visit the following palazzo ducale Zevallos palazzo Siccoda in via Cattedrale 35 In vico Castello you can see the remains of a castle built in 1148 but then destroyed in 1559 Guglia di Sant'Oronzo, which is the symbol of Ostuni.
The cathederal of Ostuni, which is located at the highest point of the town and built between 1435 and 1495. It has a lovely gothic facade.
The monastero delle Carmelitane and the San Vito martire Church next to it.
The San Giacomo di Compostela Church.
The San Francesco d'Assisi Church which has several excellent artworks inside it The Spirito Santo Church also with beautiful internal artworks. -
Other places to visit are:
Parco Archeologico e Naturalistico di Santa Maria D'agnano, which has the cave in which the bones of Delia, a woman dating back 25000 years, were found. The bones are now in the museum.
Castello di Villanova, found nearer the coast. -
Cultural events
25-27 August - sant'Oronzo, the protectorate saint of the city. The event includes a wonderful parade of knights, two fairs and fireworks.
15 August - Sagra dei Vecchi Tempi - A fair where locale products can be tasted.
Every second Sunday of the month there is an antiques market.
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Cuisine
The local cuisine is based on olive oil, greens, ewe's-milk cheese and fish. The dishes are rich with flavours, colour and smell, although all simple.
Bread is cooked in a wood oven. While meats are normally cooked over coals.