With the world as vast as it is, it's rare nowadays to see something unique. And now, because of social media, even some of the biggest monuments in the world seem common and, ultimately, unexciting. Still, there are some places out there that, when you see it real life, there's truly nothing like it anywhere else. In the Puglia region of Italy, for instance, the humble town of Alberobello boasts a stunning community of unique Trulli houses.
Exceptionally Unique Architecture
Just by looking at them alone, you'll know you've stumbled unto something wonderful. Their beguiling shapes, adorable forms, and quaint atmosphere make them seem so different. Different from anything else you've seen before. Firstly, while they all seem similar to you, look closely and you'll realize that they don't share the same architectural forms. Some are more pointed than others. Some are comparatively rounder than others. And so on and so forth. If you think they look like other houses you've seen before, it's best to look and think again!
Authentic Stone Houses
You don't get a lot of authentic stone houses anymore. Of course, the modern world has embraced the use of cement, brick, and wood. But before, centuries ago, stone was the number one material to make houses. And to this day, these Trulli houses in Alberobello are obviously some of the remaining ones left. Quite similar to many centuries-old Italian churches. No, those aren't bricks painted gray to look like stone. They're actual stone. Piled together strategically in such a unique architectural manner that, after all these years, they're still standing. Oh, the things these houses must have seen through the years!
They're Preserved from Many Generations Ago
There's something to be said about preserved monuments. With all the earthquakes or even war conflicts that have destroyed many important buildings, the mere fact that some historical structures survived is something. And everyone knows that Italy has had its fair share of destructive conflicts. And yet this little town of Alberobello in Puglia, Italy was able to preserve their adorable stone houses since the Bronze age. It's staggering that many of them look as if nothing has ever changed throughout the centuries. Sure, the locals might have renovated some of them, but all in all, they all still look the same. They’re very much representative of Italian culture, just like the many places in Rome, Ostuni, Sicily, and more.
It's Unlike Anywhere Else in Italy
Italy is best known for its baroque style. They are notorious for embracing an ostentatious sensibility when it comes to designing their houses, churches, and monuments. However, baroque is the last word you'd ever use to describe these houses. Puglia itself has many baroque churches, but these simple stone huts in Alberobello are far from that. It's as if they don't belong in the same continent, let alone the same province. But that is the charm of this town. That in the midst of all this extravagance stand multitudes of quaint little structures.
They're a UNESCO World Heritage Site
To be recognized by UNESCO means these Trulli houses really are a big deal. Only the rarest and most historic sites in the world get this honor. So the fact that this esteemed body considers these Trulli houses as a World Heritage site means you really should go and visit them. Essentially, the UNESCO believes these unique structures merit the same type of attention and preservation as the likes of Machu Picchu, the Grand Canyon, the Taj Mahal, and more. Though they're not as famous as these mentioned places, that doesn't mean they don't deserve the recognition just as much.
Some Are Still Used as Homes
It's not enough to just see them through the internet? even though you'll likely get more detailed views with close-up shots by travel photographers, it's a whole other experience seeing them in person. Do you know why? It's because some of these huts are still used as actual homes. People still live in these magnificently modest huts. And it's so hard to wrap your head around it because you can't imagine people living in what you might consider unlivable ancient structures. And yet, there they are, living their lives just like you, inside these beautiful Trulli houses.
Stunning Postcard-Worthy View
Ever seen those postcards featuring the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, or the Sistine Chapel? Well, they should start making some with the Trulli houses of Alberobello because those might sell like hotcakes. The exceptionally unique view you will find once you visit this area deserves to be on a postcard. It's like the ancient people who originally built these houses did so just for that! The way the sun shines on their glistening stone roofs or the way the colored sky paints the white bases of the houses, it'll be nothing like you've ever seen before.
It's Still an Actual Town
Take a break from the aesthetics for a minute. Another reason why we should see the huts of Alberobello is that it still operates as an actual town. Beyond just people still living inside them, the community here is alive and well. And any community who chooses to live in such quaint yet brilliant homes deserve a visit. Experience what it's like to live in such a place. Where the streets are mostly narrow. Where the sun shines directly at you. And when you're encased in a stone hut.
See How People Decorated Them
Again, just because all of these huts might look the same, doesn't mean they are. While most of the residents leave the beauty of their homes on their own, some took it upon themselves to decorate their huts. You'll find other roofs painted with all sorts of symbols as if they're leaving a message to the sky. While others cover their white bases with flowers, garlands, vines, and other sorts of botanical beauty. It's their way of not only expressing their individuality but making it prettier too.
It's a Relaxing Place
Just seeing these huts from your screens is truly relaxing, isn't it? There's a calmness to them. A serene simplicity that evokes the pleasures of country life. Now, imagine when you actually get to see them in person! You'll find that Alberobello is not just a beautiful place, it's a peaceful haven too! Sure, things can still get busy here. It won't be an Italian town if it doesn't. However, even with all the hustle and bustle, the quaint and quiet provincial life here in Puglia just seems so peaceful. Similarly to the beautiful gardens in Rome!
You only really need just one reason to go see the huts of Alberobello in Puglia, Italy. But in reality, each and every single home in this magnificent community is worth visiting!
