The Truly Magical Trulli of Puglia
In the beautiful region of Puglia, Italy, lies a unique architectural treasure known as the trullo. These traditional dry stone huts with conical roofs are a distinctive feature of the Itria Valley in the Murge area of Puglia. Originally constructed as temporary field shelters, storehouses, or permanent dwellings by small proprietors and agricultural labourers, trulli can be found throughout the region, with Alberobello being a particularly captivating destination. The town is home to whole districts filled with dense concentrations of these charming structures, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich history.
The word "trullo" comes from the Greek term "τρούλος," meaning cupola. It refers to a house with an internal space covered by a dry stone corbelled or keystone vault. In the local dialect, trullo is known as "truddu," and the builders are called "trullisti" or "caseddari." The construction style of trulli is prevalent in the Itria Valley and the surrounding areas, including Locorotondo, Fasano, Ostuni, Cisternino, Martina Franca, and Ceglie Messapica.
The origin of the trullo design is still a subject of speculation. One popular theory suggests that the high taxation on property in the region led the locals to build these structures using dry stone walls. This way, the trulli could be quickly dismantled when tax inspectors were in the area, allowing the inhabitants to avoid paying higher taxes.
The history of trulli in Alberobello can be traced back to the 17th century. The area was referred to as a selva, meaning forest, and evidence suggests that the initial settlement of Arbore bello, meaning beautiful tree, was established in the midst of a large wood. Over time, the trulli in Alberobello underwent a process of densification, with clusters of two or more trulli being built. However, trulli were primarily intended for single rural families and were not suitable for high-density multi-storey settlements.
Trulli are constructed using dry stone masonry, without the use of mortar or cement. The walls are typically built directly on the bedrock, with a thickness ranging from 0.80 to 2.70 meters. The exterior walls have a slight batter, giving them stability and strength. The roofs of trulli consist of two layers—an inner skin of limestone voussoirs and an outer skin of slightly tilted limestone slabs. The roofs are watertight and can be disassembled without compromising the rest of the structure.
The interiors of trulli are characterized by their simplicity. Most trulli have one room under each conical roof, with additional living spaces in arched alcoves. Alcoves were used as sleeping areas for children, separated from the central room by curtains. Trulli often feature open fireplaces with hidden flues and stone-built chimney stacks. However, heating a trullo can be a challenge due to its thick walls and high thermal inertia, making it difficult to keep the interior warm in winter.
Trulli have become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. Many trulli have been restored and converted into second homes or self-catering cottages. However, restoring a trullo requires adherence to UNESCO world heritage regulations, as trulli are protected under their heritage law. The Monti district in Alberobello, which was once a derelict area, has been revitalized with abandoned trulli being transformed into mini apartments for rent. Some trulli are still inhabited, while others have been modified to meet modern hygiene standards or converted into rooms for adjacent homes or villas.
Visiting Alberobello and exploring the trulli is like stepping into a fairytale village frozen in time. The unique architecture, combined with the region's beautiful landscape and rich cultural heritage, creates an unforgettable experience for travellers. Whether you're fascinated by history, or architecture, or simply seeking a unique getaway, the trulli of Apulia are sure to capture your heart and imagination.
