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Easter is an event deeply rooted in the ancient religious and popular traditions of the region, offering an authentic and evocative experience that immerses visitors in a journey of faith, culture, and unique flavors.

Easter celebrations in Puglia have deep historical roots, with centuries-old rituals passed down from generation to generation, creating moments of intense spirituality and collective involvement. Among the most evocative processions of Holy Week, some stand out: the “Processione della Desolata” in Canosa di Puglia, a ritual full of emotion, touching with its sorrowful choir of women dressed in black; the “Processione della Sacra Spina” in Andria, linked to an ancient legend steeped in faith; and the “Penitential Procession of the Virgin Addolorata” in Trani, which takes place at dawn on Good Friday, creating a solemn and intense atmosphere as it winds through the city. In Francavilla Fontana, the tradition of the “Pappamusci,” barefoot hooded penitents, adds an emotional impact to Holy Week.

Another place where Easter takes on a unique charm is Ostuni, the famous “White City,” with its maze of whitewashed alleys and majestic churches. Here, the evocative “Processione dei Misteri” enacts the Passion of Christ, with sacred statues parading in the dim light of torches, accompanied by the haunting sound of funeral marches. The mystical atmosphere that envelops the city makes Ostuni an unmissable destination for those wishing to experience Easter amid faith, tradition, and timeless beauty.

But Easter in Puglia is not only about religiosity and spirituality: it is also a journey of taste, exploring the authentic flavors of local cuisine. Tables set for the occasion offer traditional dishes that celebrate the genuine ingredients of the land and the culinary knowledge passed down through generations.

For those wishing to enjoy Easter in an exclusive setting, the Cielo restaurant, located inside La Sommità Relais in the heart of Ostuni, offers a dedicated Easter menu, creatively designed yet always linked to the gastronomic traditions of Puglia.

Between the blue of the Adriatic Sea and the golden expanses of centuries-old olive trees, Puglia offers breathtaking views that make Easter even more special. Strolling through the trulli of Alberobello, admiring the imposing Romanesque cathedrals of Bari and Trani, visiting the spectacular Castellana Caves, or getting lost in the charming alleys of Ostuni are just a few of the experiences that enrich a stay in this extraordinary land during the Easter holidays.

Whether for faith, culture, or simply the desire to discover, Easter in Puglia offers a unique opportunity to experience the magic of a region that never fails to surprise with its millennia-old history, enchanting landscapes, and warm hospitality. The experience is further enriched by staying at La Sommità Relais, in the heart of Ostuni’s historic center. From here, you can explore the Easter traditions of the city and its marvelous surroundings.

The Procession of the Mysteries of Ostuni

It is one of the most evocative moments of Holy Week, a deeply spiritual experience that involves the entire city every Good Friday. On April 18, 2025, as the sun sets, the procession will depart from the Basilica Concattedrale, winding through the white streets of the historic center. The statues depicting the Passion of Christ, carried on the shoulders of the hooded confreres, advance amidst the haunting sound of funeral marches and the solemnity of the faithful, creating a unique and touching atmosphere.

Attending the Procession of the Mysteries is not only an opportunity to witness a religious event but also a chance to be transported by tradition, history, and the deep identity of this land. It is an experience that touches the heart, a journey through time and faith, immersed in the unique beauty of Ostuni, with its whitewashed houses and breathtaking views of the Valle d’Itria.

If you’re planning to visit Puglia during Easter, don’t miss this extraordinary celebration that will surely move you and leave an unforgettable memory. Stay at La Sommità Relais, where every moment is enriched with charm and tradition.

An Unforgettable Experience

When you think of Ostuni, the “White City,” it’s impossible not to imagine its breathtaking panorama, with the sea fading into the horizon and the characteristic streets climbing up the hill. And when you add an aperitif on the stunning panoramic terrace of La Sommità Relais to this already enchanting scene, the experience becomes truly unique.

The Belvedere Terrace is one of the most exclusive spots in Ostuni, a place where time seems to stand still. Located inside an ancient palace, the terrace offers a spectacular view of the Puglian countryside with the sea on the horizon, framed by the warm colors of summer sunsets and the blue sky embracing the Adriatic coast. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy an outdoor aperitif, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of this exclusive corner.

If you’re looking for a special spot to end the day or begin an unforgettable evening, the Belvedere Terrace is the answer. With its breathtaking views, unique cocktails, and refined atmosphere, it is undoubtedly one of the most exclusive places in Ostuni, where every aperitif transforms into a memorable experience.

The Apulian countryside offers breathtaking and soothing landscapes, dotted with olive trees, almond trees, carob trees, prickly pears, cherry trees, and vineyards. A rugged and arid land that, despite its challenges, gives birth to genuine products with intense, unique flavors, shaped by centuries of tradition.

Walking through the Apulian countryside means immersing yourself in a world that tells stories of hard work and passion. You’ll encounter elderly farmers sowing or harvesting ripe fruits, marvel at the vibrant colors nature creates, and let your senses indulge in the beauty of the surroundings. Walking on the red earth, which holds centuries of history, also means learning to respect the cycles of the seasons and living in harmony with nature, which never lies.

As you explore the rural areas of Puglia, you’ll discover century-old farms that preserve the tradition of producing extra virgin olive oil, fine DOC wines, and durum wheat. Here, you’ll recognize the culture of a land that still carries the warmth of its people and the richness of a past that continues to live through its daily traditions, telling a story that never fails to captivate.

Alberobello, a charming town in the heart of Puglia, is renowned worldwide for its trulli, distinctive stone buildings that seem straight out of a fairytale. These unusual cone-shaped structures are among the most striking examples of traditional architecture and were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 due to their cultural and historical significance.

The town’s historic center offers a truly captivating journey back in time, with visitors strolling through picturesque streets lined with around 1,500 trulli. The most famous areas are Rione Monti and Aia Piccola. Rione Monti, the more tourist-oriented area, is filled with trulli transformed into shops, restaurants, and artisan boutiques, giving visitors the chance to buy souvenirs and sample traditional Puglian cuisine. Aia Piccola, on the other hand, remains a more authentic area, with some trulli still serving as homes, offering a closer look at local life.

The history of the trulli dates back centuries and represents a typical rural construction method. What makes them unique is their use of dry stone masonry—no mortar—and their conical roofs, which provide excellent resistance to weather and summer heat. Initially, these structures were built this way to avoid taxes on permanent buildings, as only temporary dwellings were exempt. When inspections were due, the roofs of the trulli were removed, making them appear as non-permanent structures.

Beyond the trulli, Alberobello is also rich in history, culture, and tradition, reflected in its many churches, squares, and monuments. One of the most notable attractions is the Church of Sant’Antonio, a trullo-shaped church that stands as a unique architectural wonder. Visitors can also explore the Trullo Museum, where they can learn more about the history and construction techniques of these fascinating buildings.

Alberobello is just 30 km (around 18 miles) from Ostuni, known as the “White City,” another gem of Puglia. This short drive offers the perfect opportunity to combine visits to two of the region’s most enchanting destinations, passing through the beautiful Puglian countryside and the sparkling Mediterranean coast.

A visit to Alberobello is a chance to step into a world of history, tradition, and timeless beauty. If you’re traveling in Puglia, a stop in this magical town is an experience you won’t want to miss, especially to see the trulli up close.