The La Chianca Dolmen in Bisceglie is considered the best-preserved example of a passage tomb in an elliptical mound dating from the protohistoric period of the 17th to 15th centuries BC. The monument includes a 10-metre-long entrance corridor. The dolmen is freely accessible; check local visiting arrangements before your visit.
Buildings and their different stories
Another leap through time takes you to Castel del Monte in Andria: the structure was completed in 1240 and stands on a rocky hill overlooking the surrounding Murgia landscape. A unique masterpiece of medieval architecture, it combines cultural elements from Northern Europe, the Muslim world and classical antiquity. Here, different cultural influences meet in a striking landscape setting.
In Trani, two other aspects of cultural heritage come into focus. The Basilica Cattedrale di Trani is an outstanding example of Apulian Romanesque architecture. Tourist visits are suspended during religious services; check visiting arrangements before your visit. Castello di Trani stands by the sea and is considered a symbol of the city’s defence. The basilica and the castle thus represent different architectural and historical themes.
Andria’s religious heritage can also be explored through specific sites. The cathedral houses the Holy Thorn, traditionally considered part of Christ’s crown. The crypt contains two tombs identified as those of Yolande of Brienne and Isabella of England, the wives of Frederick II. The Museo Diocesano San Riccardo traces the history of the city of Andria and its diocese through a chronological route. It offers access to its permanent exhibition; check current visiting arrangements before your visit. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events, whose specific programmes vary.
In Canosa di Puglia, Palazzo Sinesi became the home of the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Canosa di Puglia in 2015. The renewed exhibition explores Canosa society between the Archaic and Hellenistic periods.
The Murgia landscape and local themes
The Percorso H hiking trail between Andria and Castel del Monte offers a scenic counterpoint to the buildings. It is 22 kilometres long in total, starts at Chiesa Santa Lucia and can be reached by car via the Andria/Barletta exit on the A14. The trail passes through typical Murgia landscapes, with small agricultural plots characterised by olive and almond trees. The total distance, starting point and access route are useful planning details; check local route guidance before setting out.
The Salina Margherita di Savoia is associated with birdwatching on the Sentiero Airone, the salt production process and the work of salt workers. Check the availability of activities before your trip. Salt from Margherita di Savoia is used in cooking and for thermal treatments. This place brings together nature observation and salt, as well as the different uses of the local product.
Discover more destinations: Barletta, San Ferdinando Di Puglia, Canosa Di Puglia, Margherita Di Savoia, Trani, Brindisi, Bari, Lecce.
For the broader travel overview: Apulia.
