In the White of Ostuni

The historic town of Ostuni captivates visitors with its stunning white-washed architecture and rich cultural heritage. Wandering through the labyrinth of winding streets, one can’t help but marvel at the co-cathedral’s 15th-century grandeur and the imposing Aragonese walls. Beyond the Old Town, the Benedictine convent and the Museum Church of San Vito Martyr offer a glimpse into Ostuni’s storied past. What secrets might these enchanting spaces hold?

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Key Points

Discover the historic charm of Ostuni’s whitewashed streets and alleys, featuring significant sites like the Aragonese walls and 15th-century Benedictine convent.
Explore the impressive Aragonese walls, which date back to the 15th century and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and Adriatic Sea.
Visit the peaceful 15th-century Benedictine convent, which provides a glimpse into the past and the daily life of the monastic community.
Explore Ostuni’s rich religious heritage by exploring the Museum Church of San Vito Martyr and the magnificent mid-fifteenth-century co-cathedral.
Experience the blend of Gothic and Baroque architectural elements that make Ostuni’s co-cathedral an exceptional example of the region’s religious heritage.

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Discovering Ostuni’s Historic Center

As visitors embark on the walking tour, they’ll discover Ostuni’s historic center, a captivating labyrinth of winding, whitewashed streets and alleys.

The guided tour showcases the city’s significant sites, including the Aragonese walls, a 15th-century Benedictine convent, and the museum church of San Vito Martyr.

Visitors will also see the mid-15th-century co-cathedral and enjoy panoramic views of the olive tree plains and sea coast.

The tour culminates at the obelisk of the patron saint, offering views of the church of San Francesco and the city palace.

Looking for more options in Ostuni? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Exploring the Aragonese Walls

Although the Aragonese walls date back to the 15th century, they remain an integral part of Ostuni’s historic fabric.

Visitors can explore these fortified walls, which once protected the city from invaders. The walls feature impressive architectural details, including towers and battlements.

Visitors can explore the fortified walls, which boast impressive architectural details like towers and battlements, once used to protect the city from invaders.

As you wander along the walls, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

The tour guide will provide insights into the history and significance of these defensive structures, helping you appreciate Ostuni’s rich heritage.

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this well-preserved piece of the past.

The Benedictine Convent: a Glimpse Into the Past

One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the fifteenth-century Benedictine convent.

Visitors can explore the cloisters and learn about the convent’s history. The guide shares stories of the religious figures who once resided here, providing a glimpse into Ostuni’s past.

Guests can admire the architectural details and imagine the daily life of the monastic community. The convent offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets, allowing travelers to enjoy the tranquility of the past.

This stop on the tour provides a unique opportunity to connect with Ostuni’s heritage.

The Museum Church of San Vito Martyr

After exploring the tranquil Benedictine convent, the tour moves on to the museum church of San Vito Martyr.

This 15th-century church houses a collection of religious artifacts and artworks. Visitors will learn about the church’s history and the life of its patron saint, San Vito Martyr.

The guide shares stories and legends surrounding the church, bringing the space to life. Admire the architectural details and soak in the serene atmosphere as you discover the museum’s treasures.

This stop offers a deeper understanding of Ostuni’s rich religious heritage and cultural significance.

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The Magnificent Co-Cathedral

Next, the tour ventures to the mid-fifteenth-century co-cathedral, a true architectural marvel. Adorned with intricate Gothic and Baroque elements, the co-cathedral’s facade captivates visitors.

Inside, the grand nave and ornate altars showcase the region’s rich religious heritage. Ornate frescoes and sculptures line the walls, telling the stories of Ostuni’s faithful.

The tour guide shares insights into the co-cathedral’s significance, highlighting its role as a hub of community life. Participants marvel at the harmonious blend of styles, a testament to Ostuni’s evolution over the centuries.

With each step, the co-cathedral’s grandeur unfolds, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

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Panoramic Views of Olive Tree Plains and the Sea

Leaving the grandeur of the co-cathedral behind, the tour guides participants towards the panoramic vistas of Ostuni’s olive tree plains and the nearby sea coast.

As they ascend, the guide points out the centuries-old olive groves carpeting the rolling hills. The group pauses to take in the breathtaking panorama – the shimmering Adriatic Sea meets the horizon, framed by the historic white-washed buildings.

Participants snap photos, admiring the serene beauty of this coastal landscape. The tour concludes at the obelisk of the patron saint, offering one final perspective of Ostuni’s charming blend of architecture and natural splendor.

The Obelisk of the Patron Saint

The tour concludes at the obelisk of the patron saint, Sant’Oronzo. Towering above the piazza, the ornate obelisk serves as a focal point for the city.

Atop the obelisk stands a statue of the saint, who’s said to have protected Ostuni from the plague. Visitors can admire the obelisk’s detailed carvings and architecture, which showcase the Baroque style.

From this vantage point, they’ll also enjoy panoramic views of the church of San Francesco and the city palace. This final stop provides a fitting end to the immersive exploration of Ostuni’s historic, cultural, and architectural gems.

Tasting the Flavors of the Countryside

What better way to take in Ostuni’s local culture than by tasting the flavors of the countryside?

The guided walking tour includes a tasting of typical products from the region, allowing visitors to savor the essence of the land.

The experience promises to delight the senses with:

Fresh, locally-sourced produce
Artisanal cheeses and cured meats
Flavorful olive oils and vinegars
Traditional baked goods and pastries
Regional wines that complement the local fare

This culinary adventure adds depth to the exploration of Ostuni’s historic sites, providing a well-rounded cultural experience for travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?

Yes, you can request a private tour for your group. Private tours are available upon request and may offer more flexibility in scheduling and customizing the experience to your group’s interests.

Are Guided Tours Available in Other Languages Besides English and Italian?

According to the information provided, the tour offers audio guides in English and Italian, though it’s unclear if other languages are available. Customers should inquire about language options when booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Unfortunately, there’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The tour overview states the duration is fixed at 1.5 hours. Travelers looking for a longer experience may need to explore other tour options in the area.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, they may consider introducing discounted pricing options in the future to make the tour more accessible to a wider range of visitors.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Areas of Interest?

Customized tours are available upon request. Guests can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary and focus on specific areas of interest. Additional fees may apply for customized tours.

The Sum Up

Ostuni’s historic center dazzles with its whitewashed architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Aragonese walls, Benedictine convent, and the Museum Church, discovering the town’s storied past. The magnificent co-cathedral and panoramic views of olive tree plains and the sea further enchant. The obelisk of the patron saint and the flavors of the countryside round out an immersive experience in this captivating Apulian gem.