Ostuni

Ostuni

La Città Bianca, hilltop town with white limestone houses and a medieval labyrinth of alleys.

Ostuni

History dates back to Messapii, destroyed by Jannibal, rebuilt by Greeks, controlled by Romans and others include the Kingdom of Maples which heavily fortified the hill town. The whitewashing the buildings with line were to reflect sunlight for cooling and for sanitation purposes during outbreaks of plagues.

The sights are impressive and include the 15th C cathederal of Santa Maria Assunta, the Baroque Column of Saint Oronzo and many buildings in the town. This is a very popular place for travellers. On my last visit they had started the practice of gulf-carts that speed up the narrow streets to take tourists to the top of the hill where the cathedral is location. What a way to ruin the vibe of any town.

Park in one of the lots at the bottom of the hill and walk into and up through the town.


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MY TRAVELLING LENS
©Glenn Marcus