Archaeological excavation of Egnatia

Remains of an ancient city on the Adriatic coast.

The Egnatia Archaeological Park is situated in a beautiful natural environment. The site is characterized by a wonderful countryside and by the sea that runs along the coast; it contains some of the most important archaeological findings in Puglia.

By visiting the Archaeological Museum, you can experience the ancient Gnathia, part of the history of Puglia with all its prestige, starting from the 13th century BC and ending with the Roman age in the 3rd century BC.

The history of the excavations starts in the early 19th century when French officers plundered the site. Later, during the historic famine of 1846, the inhabitants of nearby villages looted the ancient tombs of vases, precious objects, and grave goods to sell. It wasn’t until 1912 that systematic excavation work began. They continued intermittently in the 1940s, then again from the ‘60s to the ‘80s, and are ongoing today.

NEARBY TOWNS

Cisternino

Cisternino

Cisternino is one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Towns, with a natural terrace overlooking the bucolic countryside of Itria Valley. The medieval historical centre is characterized by white-washed, stone buildings with cool, shaded, cave-like interiors. read more

Ceglie Messapica

Ceglie Messapica

Ceglie Messapica is an authentic temple of gastronomy. Enjoy a fascinating walk along its enchanting streets and piazzas, in the heart of the Itria Valley. We will immerse ourselves in the daily life of a typical southern Italian town. Ceglie, that was an impressive Messapian fortress during the VIII century bC, is today one of the most fascinated cities of Puglia, the unmistakable skyline is dominated by the tower of ducal castle and the polychrome dome of the collegiate church. read more

Martina Franca

Martina Franca

The elegant Martina Franca is located on the hills of the Murgia plateau between the provinces of Taranto, Bari and Brindisi and is one of the most enchanting towns of Itria Valley. Thanks to its quaintly narrow streets and its unique Mediterranean atmosphere, the town attracts lots of tourists. It is known as the second baroque city of Puglia after Lecce. read more

Locorotondo

Locorotondo

The white and gleaming town of Locorotondo is certainly one of the most fascinating and unique places in Puglia. No wonder that the town is ranked among the most beautiful in Italy... read more

Ostuni

Ostuni

The gleaming white city of Ostuni sits atop the last hill of the southern Murgia plateau. Looking out from its fortifications, your eye is drawn over a plain full of ancient olive trees toward the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. read more

Alberobello

Alberobello

Alberobello is the Itria Valley’s premier location to see trulli, the cone-shaped houses distinctive to Apulia, making it the most enchanting part of Italy’s heel. Alberobello has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 and it is a definitely the landmark of Puglia, a unique place that can not be missed. read more

What our guests think of us…

Our guests’ satisfaction is our greatest reward and we couldn’t be more proud of their reviews. That’s why we want your trip to be unforgettable!

  • star rating  Touring with Apulia Slow Travel was a great experience from the very start. I reached out to Michele for recommendations as a first-time visitor to Puglia and he sent back... read more

    avatar thumb cocochadwick
    October 24, 2022
  • star rating  Such a gift of a day! Michele took us on a lovely private tour around the small towns of Puglia, and booked a beautiful and centrally located hotel for us.... read more

    avatar thumb micaelaj681
    October 21, 2022
  • star rating  We just returned from a week in Puglia that Michele arranged and guided us. From the planning to the tours everything was superb. Michele is a real professional.... read more

    spinesrgn
    October 17, 2022
  • star rating  Quick, easy and excellent service, above my expectations
    We just returned home from an amazing 10 nights in Puglia and we can't imagine a better way to see this part... read more

    michellehT2182CM
    October 15, 2022
  • star rating  We did 2 day tours - one of Matera and the other of Alberobello with cheese and olive oil production visits. Both days were excellent. Michele is a superb host... read more

    522melwynp
    September 21, 2022
  • star rating  We contacted Michele only two days before we wanted to visit Matera and Alberobello. He was quick to respond and incredibly helpful in planning our trip. The morning of our... read more

    jacobb196
    August 28, 2022
  • star rating  It's the first time I went to Puglia with a couple of friends and we decided to book a mozzarella production tour and tasting since we are all cheese lovers.... read more

    majamrso
    August 7, 2022