Altamura
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Latest update: 18 March 2024
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By: Dion Protani
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A historic town in southern Italy, Altamura, is situated in the Metropolitan city of Bari province.
With a population of approximately 70,000 inhabitants, it is renowned for its well-preserved medieval center and ancient origins dating back to prehistoric times. Altamura is most famous for its Altamura Man, a well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton. |
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Altamura: the city of bread
Altamura, nestled in the province of Bari, is a town renowned for its rich history and architectural wonders. Its historic centre boasts elegant palaces and churches, including the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, adorned with intricate decorations.
The town's most iconic feature is the prehistoric Altamura Man, a remarkably well-preserved fossil discovered in a nearby cave. Visitors can explore the charming streets lined with artisan shops and cafes, or venture into the nearby Alta Murgia National Park, offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Altamura promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty in Puglia.
The town's most iconic feature is the prehistoric Altamura Man, a remarkably well-preserved fossil discovered in a nearby cave. Visitors can explore the charming streets lined with artisan shops and cafes, or venture into the nearby Alta Murgia National Park, offering scenic hiking trails and panoramic views. Altamura promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty in Puglia.
Comune di Altamura
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Province: Metropolitan City of Bari
Region: Puglia Population: 70,038 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Highlights: bread, cathedral Size: 431 km² |
Elevation: 450 metres
Close by: Gravina in Puglia, Alta Murgia National Park, Bari Nearest train station: Gravina in Puglia (14 km) Fly to: Bari Airport (47 km) Recommended accommodation: Fuori le Mura |
What are the most popular activities in Altamura and the local area?
Altamura:
Nearby Attractions:
- Altamura Cathedral: Explore the impressive cathedral, known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture and housing the famous Altamura Man, a prehistoric skeleton discovered in the nearby caves.
- Palazzo Vescovile: Visit the historic episcopal palace, featuring a striking Baroque façade and hosting cultural exhibitions and events.
- Altamura Bread: Taste the renowned Altamura bread, famous for its unique taste and traditional production methods, protected by PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status.
- Altamura Historical Centre: Wander through the charming old town, with its medieval streets, historic buildings, and picturesque squares.
- Sassi di Matera: Take a short trip to nearby Matera to explore the UNESCO-listed Sassi cave dwellings, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
Nearby Attractions:
- Gravina in Puglia: Visit the nearby town of Gravina in Puglia, known for its ancient bridge, rock-hewn churches, and stunning ravine landscape.
- Alta Murgia National Park: Explore the natural beauty of Alta Murgia National Park, with its rolling hills, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife.
What are the best restaurants in Altamura and the local area?
- Osteria del Divino: Located in the heart of Altamura's historic centre, Osteria del Divino offers traditional Apulian cuisine with a modern twist. Diners can enjoy dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including Altamura bread, fresh pasta, and grilled meats.
- Antichi Sapori: Situated just outside Altamura, Antichi Sapori is housed in a rustic farmhouse surrounded by olive groves. The restaurant is renowned for its authentic Apulian cuisine, featuring dishes such as orecchiette with turnip tops, lamb stew, and homemade desserts.
- Trattoria Il Pozzo: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Altamura, Trattoria Il Pozzo is a charming family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality and delicious food. The menu offers a variety of Apulian specialties, including focaccia, bruschetta, and fresh seafood.
- La Locanda del Federiciano: Located near Altamura's historic centre, La Locanda del Federiciano is housed in a beautifully restored building dating back to the 16th century. The restaurant serves classic Apulian dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by an extensive wine list.
- Masseria Fragnite: Situated in the countryside outside Altamura, Masseria Fragnite is a historic farmhouse surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu featuring traditional Apulian cuisine, including homemade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and grilled meats.
Altamura Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Altamura and the local area?
- Masseria San Pietro (Altamura): Situated in the countryside near Altamura, Masseria San Pietro offers guests a peaceful rural retreat surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. This beautifully restored farmhouse provides elegant accommodation with modern amenities, allowing guests to relax in style while still being within a short drive of Altamura's town centre and attractions.
- B&B Il Chiostro (Altamura): Located in the heart of Altamura's historic centre, B&B Il Chiostro provides a charming stay within walking distance of the town's main attractions. Guests can explore the narrow streets, visit landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and immerse themselves in the local atmosphere.
- Masseria Susafa (Altamura): Positioned just outside Altamura, Masseria Susafa offers a tranquil countryside escape. Surrounded by olive trees and scenic landscapes, this farmhouse provides comfortable accommodation with traditional Puglian charm, allowing guests to unwind in a serene environment while still being within easy reach of Altamura's amenities.
- Hotel San Nicola (Altamura): Located in a quiet area of Altamura, Hotel San Nicola offers comfortable accommodation with easy access to the town centre. Guests can enjoy modern rooms and amenities such as a restaurant and bar, providing a convenient base for exploring Altamura and its nearby attractions.
- B&B Il Trullo (Alberobello): Set amidst the iconic trulli of Alberobello, B&B Il Trullo offers a unique and memorable experience. Guests can stay in beautifully restored trulli, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and culture. The trullo is within walking distance of Alberobello's attractions, allowing guests to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its charming streets at their leisure.
What are the closest airports to Altamura?
Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport (BRI):
34 minutes by car (47 km)
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS):
1 hour 42 minutes by car (161 km)
34 minutes by car (47 km)
Brindisi Salento Airport (BDS):
1 hour 42 minutes by car (161 km)
What's the closest train station to Altamura?
Gioia del Colle
- Located 33 kilometres from Altamura (39 minutes by car)
- Intercity trains connect to Bari with journey times of 32 minutes
- Regional trains take slightly longer - around 40 minutes
What private transfer options are there for Altamura?
A private transfer from Bari Airport to Altamura takes around 35 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Altamura?
