Once a major commercial port and still an important nautical centre today, the town of Brindisi, located in the province that shares its name, is also a popular port of call for tourists visiting the southern region of Puglia. The area surrounding the city is still very rural and tourists heading further afield will come across traditional villages that have changed little in appearance in hundreds of years, thanks to the unique “trulli”; the round houses with conical roofs that Puglia is famous for. The province of Brindisi is also well known for its local produce, particularly wine and artichokes, which are farmed in huge numbers in this ideal climate.
The most important and most visited historical building in Brindisi is the 13th century Castello Svevo, which stood empty for centuries until it was converted into a prison in the 1800s. It is open to visitors all year round, along with the smaller Aragonese Castle, which commands excellent views of the port area. Brindisi was once home to two huge Roman columns, though to signal the end of the Appian Way and used as a navigation aid in later years. Only one is standing today, but it is an indication of the town's importance in Roman times that such structures were built here. Other Roman buildings still standing include the Fontana Grande, a fountain built by the side of the Appian Way to help refresh travellers. There are several interesting religious buildings in Brindisi, including the 18th century reconstruction of the original 12th century cathedral destroyed by an earthquake in 1743 and the 13th century Church of Santa Maria del Casale, decorated with unusual geometric patterns using grey and yellow stone. Brindisi harbour is still quite industrial and not very pretty, but there are parks and nature reserves either side of the port, which are very pleasant for a stroll by the water's edge.
Outside of the main city there are several picturesque places to visit, such as Ostuni, a whitewashed old town dominated by a large cathedral and looking over perfect sandy beaches and Murge, where you can visit the unusual Castle of Oria; unusual, because of the main tower which is built in the shape of a ship's prow. Further inland is the ancient site of Egnazia, where Roman ruins and the remains of even older settlements have been found. The countryside here is ideal for walkers and there are many paths following the coastline or winding their way between pretty Puglia villages.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Brindisi? Then below is a selection of Apartments in Brindisi and villas in Brindisi that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
