Exploring the Charm of Puglia with My Love

A Stone's Throw from Forever

As our Puglian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was all about soaking in the ancient beauty of Matera, a city that feels like stepping back in time. It's hard to believe our 11-day journey is ending; it feels like just yesterday we arrived in Bari, eager to explore this enchanting region. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end, and what better way to conclude our trip than with a day filled with history, culture, and culinary delights in Matera?


Explore Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage site with captivating cave dwellings, rich culture, and stunning landscapes in southern Italy.

Our final day in Puglia began with a delightful breakfast at Al Batacchio in Ruvo di Puglia. It was a charming spot, and I savored every bite of the Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, the perfect way to kick off our last day of exploration. Hans and I enjoyed some coffee, pastries, and delicious local fruits. It was a beautiful start to the day, setting a positive tone for our adventures in Matera.


Discover authentic Apulian cuisine at Al Batacchio in Ruvo di Puglia – where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we drove to Matera, eager to explore the city of stone. Matera is truly a sight to behold; the Sassi, ancient cave dwellings, are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It felt like stepping into another world, a place where time has stood still for centuries. We wandered through the narrow streets, marveling at the architecture and the history that seemed to seep from every stone. The autumn weather was perfect, with a gentle breeze and warm sunshine making our exploration even more enjoyable.

The beauty of Matera lies not just in its stones, but in the stories they whisper.

Our first stop was the Palombaro Lungo, an ancient cistern that provided water to the city for centuries. It was an incredible feat of engineering, and it gave us a glimpse into the resourcefulness of the people who once lived here. Walking through the dimly lit tunnels, I couldn't help but imagine the lives of those who relied on this water source, their daily routines shaped by the ebb and flow of this underground reservoir.

Next, we explored Casa Grotta nei Sassi, a cave dwelling that has been preserved to show what life was like for the families who lived in the Sassi. It was a humbling experience to see how people lived in such simple conditions, relying on the bare necessities and the strength of their community. The small, cramped space was a stark contrast to our modern homes, but it was also filled with a sense of warmth and resilience, a testament to the human spirit's ability to thrive in the face of adversity.

We also visited a few of Matera's rock churches, including the Church of Saint Mary of Idris. These ancient churches, carved into the rock, were adorned with beautiful frescoes and intricate carvings. Each church had its own unique story to tell, its own history etched into its walls. The quiet reverence of these sacred spaces was deeply moving, a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

For lunch, we indulged in a delightful meal at Trullo Antichi Sapori di Marco Maria Concetta. While technically located in Alberobello, we enjoyed some of their local cheeses and wines that we brought with us to Matera. It was a perfect culinary experience, savoring the rich flavors of the region.


Explore the delightful flavors of Apulia at Trullo Antichi Sapori, your one-stop shop for local cheeses and wines in charming Alberobello.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of Matera, visiting the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Bruna & Sant'Eustachio. The cathedral was a beautiful example of Baroque architecture, its ornate façade a stark contrast to the simple cave dwellings that surrounded it. Inside, the cathedral was filled with stunning artwork and intricate details, a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who built it.

As the sun began to set, we found a spot overlooking the Sassi and watched as the city transformed into a magical landscape of golden light and shadows. The Sassi glowed with a warm, ethereal light, its ancient stones seeming to come alive with stories of the past. It was a breathtaking sight, a perfect ending to our day in Matera.

Before dinner, we stopped by La Casa Del Mojito for a refreshing drink. It was a fun and lively spot, and we enjoyed sipping our mojitos while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to share stories and experiences, creating a sense of camaraderie and connection.


Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at La Casa Del Mojito, a must-visit bar in Polignano a Mare, offering refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere.

For our final dinner in Puglia, we had a reservation at Grotta Palazzese in Polignano a Mare, a restaurant set inside a stunning cave overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The setting was absolutely breathtaking, and the food was exquisite. Dining in a cave, with the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks below, was an unforgettable experience. The ambiance was romantic and magical, the perfect setting for our last night in Puglia.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine in a breathtaking cave setting overlooking the Adriatic Sea at Grotta Palazzese.

The service was impeccable, and every dish was a work of art. We savored each bite, knowing that this was our last taste of Puglian cuisine for a while. Hans and I shared stories and memories from our trip, laughing and reminiscing about the adventures we had shared. It was a perfect ending to our culinary journey, a celebration of the flavors and experiences that had defined our time in Puglia.

As we savored our last glasses of wine, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. From the charming towns to the stunning coastline, Puglia had captured our hearts. We talked about the delicious food we had eaten, the friendly people we had met, and the incredible sights we had seen. We felt grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this beautiful region together, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Bonn, filled with incredible memories of our Puglian adventure. It’s always a bit sad to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know we’ll be back to explore more of Italy soon. I’m already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may take us.

As I reflect on our time in Puglia, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced this beautiful region with my husband, Hans. We have created memories that will last a lifetime, and I am so grateful for the chance to share our adventures with all of you. Until next time, arrivederci from Puglia!

This trip to Puglia has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey of discovery, a celebration of culture, and a testament to the power of love and connection. As we prepare to return home, I carry with me the warmth of the Puglian sun, the taste of its delicious cuisine, and the memories of its ancient stones. And, most importantly, I carry with me the love and laughter that Hans and I shared, strengthening our bond and creating a tapestry of moments that will forever be woven into the fabric of our lives. Until our next adventure, may your days be filled with joy, wonder, and the courage to explore the world with an open heart.