Alberobello Italy Trulli houses Travel abstract Postcard

Trulli houses in Alberobello, Italy, are among the most distinctive architectural structures in the world. These whitewashed, cone-roofed dwellings, made of limestone and built without mortar, are a signature of the Puglia region. Dating back to the 14th century, trulli were originally constructed in this dry-stone technique to allow for quick disassembly, a clever strategy to avoid taxation under the Kingdom of Naples. Their thick stone walls provide excellent insulation, keeping interiors cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Many trulli roofs are adorned with mysterious painted symbols, often with religious or superstitious meanings, adding to their charm and mystique. Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the heart of the trulli region, with entire districts filled with these fairy-tale-like homes. The Rione Monti neighborhood is particularly famous, with over 1,000 trulli clustered along winding stone streets, now housing shops, cafes, and guesthouses. Meanwhile, the Aia Piccola district offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into local life, with trulli still used as residences. Today, Alberobello is a popular tourist destination, where visitors can explore trulli museums, stay in trulli accommodations, and immerse themselves in the rich traditions of this unique town.