This fascinating castle built by Frederick II is a masterpiece of medieval architecture, a symbol of Puglia and, since 1996, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The fortress might have originally been used as an astronomical observatory or as an imposing hunting lodge. Its mysterious octagonal base sets it significantly apart from all the other castles in Puglia.

This is a splendid village set at the foot of Monte San Marco. The Abbey of Sant’Angelo is the first building you see as you arrive at Orsara. Surrounded by vegetation, the complex, which is both a custodian of the Christian faith and a superlative example of religious architecture, includes the Church of San Pellegrino, the Church of the Annunziata, and the Grotta of San Michele. This cave was probably dug into a cleft in the rocks in 200 A.D. making it one of the oldest places of worship in Southern Italy.

Alberobello's characteristic historic center is filled with trulli, traditional drystone huts whitened with quicklime and capped by conical bare-stone roofs.

Crosses, pierced hearts, and zodiac signs decorate the roofs, maintaining the air of mystery that surrounds the trulli.

The Basilica of San Michele, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the symbol of Monte Sant’Angelo. The Sanctuary of San Michele is a precious evidence of Lombard art in Italy.

A rock-hewn staircase takes down to the Sacra Grotta (Holy Cave), the mystic place where the Archangel made its appearance and an important pilgrims’ destination.