Ostuni

Discover Ostuni

The ancient walls of Ostuni, a city located about 8 km (5 mi) from the coast in the province of Brindisi, rise to an altitude of 218 m (715 ft) above sea level. This distinctive settlement, often called “the White Town” (La Città Bianca), is characterized by its bright, white-painted architecture that gleams under the Apulian sun.

The town’s historical core, built upon a prominent hill, retains fortifications from centuries past, offering a tangible link to its rich and varied heritage.

For those wondering what to see in Ostuni, the city offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions.

With a winter population of 30,143 inhabitants, swelling significantly in summer, Ostuni is a primary tourist destination in Puglia, Italy. Visitors to Ostuni find a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant local life, including the impressive Ostuni Cathedral and the fortified masserie scattered across the surrounding countryside.

History of Ostuni

The region surrounding Ostuni has been continuously inhabited since the Stone Age, establishing its presence long before recorded history. The town itself is believed to have been founded by the Messapii, a pre-classical tribe, whose early settlement faced near total destruction by Hannibal during the Punic Wars. Subsequently, the Romans undertook the task of rebuilding the town, contributing to its early development and infrastructure.

Following the decline of the Western Roman Empire, Ostuni was sacked, marking a period of upheaval before it became part of the Norman County of Lecce in 996 AD.

The Normans significantly shaped the town’s medieval layout, constructing a castle—of which only remains are visible today—and fortifying the summit of the hill, reaching 229 m (751 ft), with city walls featuring four gates.

From 1300 to 1463, Ostuni was integrated into the Principality of Taranto, and in 1507, alongside what is now the frazione of Villanova and Grottaglie, it passed into the hands of Isabella, Duchess of Bari, wife of Gian Galeazzo Sforza, Duke of Milan. Under Isabella’s enlightened rule, Ostuni experienced a flourishing period during the Italian Renaissance, as she notably protected humanists and people of art and letters, including Bishop Giovanni Bovio.

Isabella died in 1524, and Ostuni, as part of her dowry, was transferred to her daughter, Bona Sforza, who was destined to marry Sigismund I of Poland, the King of Poland. Bona Sforza’s governance ensured continued stability for Ostuni, further contributing to its prosperity. A crucial defensive measure was implemented in 1539 when she commissioned the construction of towers along the entire shoreline, designed to protect against anticipated attacks from the Turks, who controlled the Balkans at the time.

These strategically placed towers, including Pozzella Tower, the Pylon, and Villanova, remain extant today and historically communicated through fiery beacons.

What to see in Ostuni, Puglia: top attractions

Old Town (La Città Bianca)

The Old Town of Ostuni forms a striking citadel, built atop a prominent hill and still encircled by its ancient walls.

This historic core is widely known as “the White Town” (La Città Bianca) due to its uniformly white-painted buildings and walls, a tradition that reflects centuries of architectural practice. Exploring its labyrinthine alleys reveals the strategic layout established by the Normans, providing visitors with a tangible connection to its medieval past.

Ostuni Cathedral

Dominating the skyline of Ostuni, the Ostuni Cathedral stands as one of the town’s largest and most significant architectural monuments. Its construction reflects the city’s historical prosperity and religious devotion, serving as a central point for both spiritual life and civic identity for centuries.

The cathedral’s imposing facade and intricate details invite close inspection, showcasing the artistry prevalent in Puglia.

Bishop’s Palace

Adjacent to the Ostuni Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace is another of the town’s largest and most historically important buildings.

This edifice has served as the administrative and residential seat for the bishops of Ostuni for generations, reflecting their influence throughout the city’s development. Its architectural grandeur complements the cathedral, together forming a powerful ecclesiastical complex.

Palazzi of Aristocratic Families

Ostuni is home to numerous palazzi, the grand residences of local aristocratic families, which contribute significantly to the city’s architectural heritage. These include the prominent Aurisicchio, Ayroldi, Bisantizzi, Falghieri, Ghionda, Giovine, Jurleo, Marseglia, Moro, Palmieri, Petrarolo, Sansone, Siccoda, Tanzarella, Urselli, and Zaccaria families.

Each palazzo, with its distinct design and historical lineage, tells a story of the influential figures who shaped Ostuni over several centuries.

Pugliese Masserie

Beyond the urban core, the surrounding countryside of Ostuni is dotted with typical Pugliese masserie, which are fortified large estate-farms.

These unique structures, often dating back centuries, served both agricultural and defensive purposes, reflecting the region’s historical need for protection. One notable example, San Domenico, was once under the ownership of the Knights of Malta, underscoring the area’s rich historical connections and strategic importance.

Local food and typical products of Ostuni

The gastronomic tradition of Ostuni is deeply rooted in the fertile lands of Puglia, benefiting from a history of agricultural abundance and Mediterranean influences. The region’s culinary identity is intrinsically linked to its primary agricultural products, which have sustained its inhabitants for generations.

The local diet emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, reflecting a commitment to simple yet flavorful preparations.

While specific dishes are not detailed in historical records, the prominence of high-quality olive oil and wine suggests a cuisine rich in these foundational elements.

Traditional preparations would likely feature vegetables grown in the sun-drenched plains, complemented by locally sourced meats and seafood from the nearby Adriatic coast. The emphasis remains on fresh, seasonal components, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage.

The area around Ostuni is renowned for its production of two significant agricultural products: Olive Oil and Wine. These are not explicitly listed as certified products with specific designations in the provided sources, but their high quality is consistently highlighted as a defining characteristic of the region.

The fertile soil and favorable climate contribute to the robust flavors and esteemed reputation of these local staples.

Festivals, events and traditions of Ostuni

The village of Ostuni celebrates its patron saint, Sant’Oronzo, with an annual feast day on August 26.

This significant event is a central part of the local calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike to participate in the festivities. While specific details of the celebration are not provided, traditional Italian patron saint festivals often include religious processions, musical performances, and communal gatherings that reflect the community’s deep-seated cultural heritage.

These celebrations typically involve a vibrant public display of devotion and civic pride, often culminating in fireworks displays as evening falls. The feast of Sant’Oronzo provides a unique opportunity to experience Ostuni’s traditions and witness the local community’s adherence to long-standing customs. No other specific food fairs or documented traditions are detailed in the available sources for Ostuni.

When to visit Ostuni, Italy and how to get there

The best time to visit Ostuni, Italy, and indeed Puglia, largely depends on personal preference regarding crowds and climate.

While the city’s winter population is around 30,143 inhabitants, it can swell significantly to 200,000 during the summer months, making it one of Puglia’s main tourist attractions.

Summer offers warm weather and a lively atmosphere, but visitors should be prepared for higher temperatures and more crowded conditions, particularly in August. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide a more temperate climate and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring the city’s historical sites and the surrounding countryside, which includes other charming Puglian towns like Palo del Colle.

Ostuni’s Old Town is built on a prominent hill, with the summit reaching 229 m (751 ft) and the village itself at 218 m (715 ft) above sea level, indicating that exploring the historic center involves navigating uneven and sometimes steep terrain. This can be a consideration for visitors with mobility challenges. For international travelers, carrying some Euros cash is advisable, as English proficiency may be limited in smaller local shops and establishments.

Getting to Ostuni is relatively straightforward, given its location in the province of Brindisi and its proximity to major transport hubs in Puglia.

The city is situated approximately 8 km (5 mi) from the coast.

While specific motorway exits or train station names are not provided in the sources, visitors typically fly into Brindisi Airport (Aeroporto del Salento) or Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, then rent a car or take a train to the nearest regional station. For official information about the municipality, including local services and potentially updated travel details, visitors can consult the official municipal website.

Where to stay near Ostuni

Accommodation near Ostuni offers a range of options, particularly highlighting the traditional Pugliese masserie. These fortified large estate-farms, once agricultural and defensive strongholds, have been thoughtfully converted into unique lodging experiences. Staying in a masseria allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local landscape and history, often providing a tranquil setting amidst olive groves and vineyards. One such notable example, San Domenico, was historically held by the Knights of Malta, reflecting the deep historical roots of these estates, which now welcome guests seeking a distinctive stay in the Puglian countryside.