Sunday, September 1, 2013

Shore Excursions:Roofs and History of Alberobello, Bari Italy



This half day tour visits the fairy tale town of Alberobello which has become well known for its curious whitewashed, round structures with gray, stone, cone-shaped roofs. These houses are called Trulli and are common in the region of Apulia but Alberobello is unique because it is an entire city of them. The word Trulli comes from the Latin turris, which means dome. 
After meeting your driver and licensed guide you travel along a scenic road through olive groves and along the sea in the traditional and timeless area of Southern Italy until you reach Alberobello. 
The old town of Alberobello has about one hundred of these interesting buildings located on a hilltop surrounded by olive trees. While the exact origin of the circular buildings with stone teepee roofs is not known, it is said that the tradition is 5,000 years old. A common theory is that they were popular in the Middle Ages when house taxation was heavy.The buildings were temporary and could easily be moved to avoid being taxed. 
Today the buildings are permanent and a visit to the interior is a treat. The roof covers a common area which is separated by colorful curtains which pose a sharp contrast to the stark white walls. Simple furniture made from olive wood is the work of local farmers who have lived in these buildings for generations. 
The buildings stay cool in the hot summer because of the stone walls and in winter they rely on the hearth for heat. 
In 1996 the town of Alberobello was added to the UNESCO list of heritage sites. After visiting the village you return to the pier in Bari. 
Please note: This tour is not suitable for our guests traveling with a wheelchair. This tour requires extended periods of walking over difficult terrain. Tour length might vary to fit ship’s scheduled departure time. 

                        

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