Brindisi

Brindisi, a coastal city in Italy's Puglia region, sits along the Adriatic Sea. This port city has a rich history dating back millennia, with landmarks like the Roman Column marking the end of the Appian Way, the 11th-century Brindisi Cathedral, and the medieval Aragonese Castle. As you explore Brindisi's compact center, you'll find lively piazzas, fresh seafood restaurants, and opportunities to sail across the harbor for city views.

Exploring Brindisi's Historic Center

You can walk through Brindisi's compact historic center in about 20 minutes. Begin at Piazza Duomo, where you'll find the 11th-century Brindisi Cathedral. The cathedral's architecture is primarily Romanesque, with later baroque additions. Next, visit the Tempio di San Giovanni al Sepolcro, a circular 11th-century church built by Crusaders returning from the Holy Land. Its unique design and well-preserved frescoes attract many visitors interested in history.

Waterfront and Harbor Views

Take a walk along the Lungomare Regina Margherita, Brindisi's waterfront promenade. This palm-lined walkway provides views of the active harbor and is lined with cafes and restaurants where you can sit and watch people pass by. For a different view of the city, take a water taxi to the Casale district on the opposite side of the harbor. Here, you can climb to the top of the Monumento al Marinaio d'Italia (Monument to the Italian Sailor) to see Brindisi and its port from above.

Cuisine of Puglia

Brindisi's food reflects its coastal location and Puglian roots. Try local dishes like orecchiette pasta, often served with broccoli rabe or a rich tomato sauce. Seafood is common in many dishes - you might want to taste "riso, patate e cozze," a dish of rice, potatoes, and mussels. For a typical Puglian flavor, look for burrata, a creamy cheese from the region. You can pair your meal with local wines like Primitivo or Negroamaro, produced in nearby vineyards.

Roman Legacy and Maritime History

When you visit Brindisi, make sure to see the Roman Column, which marks the end of the ancient Appian Way. This lone Corinthian column stands at the top of a grand staircase overlooking the harbor, connecting the city to its Roman past. To learn more about Brindisi's history, visit the Ribezzo Archaeological Museum in Piazza Duomo. The museum has a collection of artifacts, including bronze statues found in the harbor and items from the city's Greek and Roman periods.

Day Trips from Brindisi

From Brindisi, you can easily explore other parts of Puglia. The UNESCO-protected town of Alberobello, known for its unique trulli houses, is just over an hour's drive away. Closer to Brindisi, you'll find Ostuni, often called the "White City," perched on a hill with maze-like streets and white buildings. If you're interested in baroque architecture, you can take a 30-minute train ride to Lecce, sometimes referred to as the "Florence of the South."

Best Times to Visit

Spring and early autumn are good times to explore Brindisi. In late spring, daytime temperatures are around 21°C (70°F), comfortable for walking around the city or eating outside along the promenade. September and October have similar temperatures and fewer tourists than the summer months. If you visit in summer, expect hot weather and more crowded attractions, but you'll also have the chance to experience local festivals and events.