Apulia - Caves, Castles & Cathedrals
The high plateau of the Gargano; the grain-covered plain of the Tavoliere; the limestone plateau of the Murge, fringed by rugged ravines on the west and shelving towards the Adriatic through olive groves and vineyards; these are the elements of the Apulian landscape which set it apart from the rest of Italy.
The high plateau of the Gargano; the grain covered plain of the Tavoliere; the limestone plateau of the Murge, fringed by rugged ravines on the west and shelving towards the Adriatic through olive groves and vineyards; these are the elements of the Apulian landscape which set it apart from the rest of Italy. Strategically positioned at the ‘heel’ of the peninsula, Apulia was a natural transit area between east and west, attracting new settlers whose influence is reflected in the archaeology and architecture.
Alastair Small has spent many years in excavation and fieldwork here, and has a close personal interest in the whole early history of this area. This is important because this journey does not concentrate on any one period, but seeks to bring you gradually to an understanding of the influences which have produced their unique character. His familiarity with Apulia means that he will be able to use everything you see as part of the story of the past here.
From the Iron Age Daunian warrior stelae of Manfredonia to Hannibal’s battle tactics at Cannae, Byzantine wall-paintings to the Baroque ‘architectural embroidery’ of Lecce, you will find this an intriguing and diverse holiday in a beautiful part of Italy. We have chosen three interesting and very different hotels; the first an attractive former convent and the last a stately converted palazzo, a Sheridan hotel.I cannot stand being stuck in a market or on a beach overwhelmed with tourists. In terms of materials, I just need my clothes and maybe a book or two for light reading
