Minervino Murge, the Balcony of Apulia, a charming village offering breathtaking views at the border of Apulia and Basilicata. This picturesque town is nestled in the heart of the Alta Murgia National Park, a true natural gem.
Minervino Murge is also an integral part of the historic Imperial Apulia, a region rich in culture and architectural beauty. From here, you can explore the towns of the sixth province of Apulia such as Andria, famous for the majestic Castel del Monte; Barletta, with its vibrant city life; and Bisceglie, known for its picturesque ports.
Don't miss the historic Canosa di Puglia, rich in ancient treasures, and the lively Corato. Relax in the thermal baths of Margherita di Savoia or stroll among the vineyards of San Ferdinando di Puglia.
Visit the historic Spinazzola, the picturesque Trani with its cathedral by the sea, and the traditional Trinitapoli, known for its olive oil production.
Come discover Minervino Murge and the hidden treasures of Imperial Apulia. Every corner tells a story and offers an unforgettable experience.
Minervino Murge, known as the "Balcony of Apulia," is a fascinating village located in the heart of the Alta Murgia National Park. This picturesque town offers a variety of tourist attractions that enchant every visitor.
Breathtaking Views: Thanks to its elevated position, Minervino Murge offers spectacular views of the Apulian countryside and the nearby Alta Murgia National Park. Don't miss the chance to take unforgettable and Instagrammable photos from the viewpoint.
The Old Town: Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, called SCESCIOLA, where you can admire ancient churches, historic buildings, and characteristic alleys. The medieval atmosphere will transport you back in time.
The City of Stairs: Minervino Murge boasts the record of being the town with the most stairs in Europe. These picturesque paths, winding between stone houses and narrow alleys, offer suggestive glimpses and breathtaking views. Each staircase tells a story and offers a new perspective on the village.
Minervino Murge Lighthouse: One of the most fascinating curiosities of the town is the lighthouse without the sea. Located at the highest point of Minervino, this lighthouse is a unique symbol, used as a reference point for travelers. Its unusual presence in an area far from the coast makes it a must-see attraction.
Church of Santa Maria Assunta: This imposing religious building is a perfect example of Romanesque architecture. The interior, rich in frescoes and artworks, deserves a thorough visit.
Norman-Swabian Castle: Located at the highest point of the town, this castle offers unparalleled panoramic views. The structure, dating back to the 12th century, is a true symbol of local history.
Alta Murgia National Park: Minervino Murge is the gateway to this splendid natural park. Here you can go hiking, horseback riding, and observe the typical flora and fauna of the region.
Cave of San Michele: A place of worship and mystery, this cave is linked to numerous local legends. The interior of the cave houses a small church that has been a pilgrimage destination for centuries.
Local Traditions and Festivals: Minervino Murge is famous for its lively traditions and folk festivals. Participate in local celebrations to discover the folklore and hospitality of the locals.
Food and Wine: Don't miss the opportunity to savor the typical dishes of Apulian cuisine in local restaurants. From orecchiette with turnip tops to the region's robust wines, every meal is a unique culinary experience.
Museum of Rural Civilization: This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rural life of the past. The exhibits tell the story and agricultural traditions of Minervino Murge.
Outdoor Activities: For nature and adventure lovers, Minervino Murge offers numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities in the beautiful natural scenery of the Alta Murgia.
Apulia is a region rich in historical and cultural sites that contribute to its beauty and heritage. Some of the most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Apulia, easily reachable from Minervino Murge, include:
In Apulia, the art of graffiti is emerging as an increasingly appreciated and visible form of urban expression. This form of contemporary art enriches cities and small towns, contributing to the vibrancy and cultural diversity of local communities.
Minervino Murge has enriched its artistic heritage with a suggestive mural dedicated to Lina Wertmüller, the director who filmed the famous movie "I Basilischi" in the town. This mural, created by the artist Daniele Geniale from Andria, adds a touch of cinematic culture to the urban landscape.
More recently, Minervino Murge received a new work of art donated by the renowned wine brand Antinori, which has the Bocca di Lupo estate here. This artwork, dedicated to the ancient art of grape pressing and designed by the artist Piskv, celebrates the region's wine tradition and contemporary art, blending history and innovation.
A few kilometers from Minervino Murge, you can admire murals in Stornara di Puglia, famous for being an area rich in street art works created by some of the world's most famous street artists. The works in Stornara contribute to making this place unique, attractive to lovers of urban art and alternative culture.
From here, you can continue your visit to the San Paolo district in Bari, also known for its large-scale murals, which have transformed the facades of buildings into true artistic masterpieces. These murals not only decorate the neighborhood but also represent an example of urban regeneration through art.
From Minervino Murge starts the Wine Route, an itinerary designed to enhance local typical products, such as wine and extra virgin olive oil, which are symbols of the tradition and quality of the territory.
Along the Wine Route, you can visit various wineries that produce high-quality wines, often made from native grape varieties like Nero di Troia. The most important ones are Colle Petrito, Mirvita, Bocca di Lupo, and Morasinsi.
Similarly, oil mills offer visits where you can observe the olive processing to obtain extra virgin olive oil, taste different varieties of oils, and learn about the characteristics that distinguish a good oil.
An integral part of the Wine and Oil Route are the food and wine experiences offered by local restaurants and agritourisms. Here you can taste dishes of Apulian tradition, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, paired with the wines and oils of the territory. Among the specialties to try are orecchiette with turnip tops, burrata, donkey meat, and knife-cut sausage.
The best trattorias include: Cantina Brandi, Cucina Casalinga, Masseria Barbera, Casa Scesciola, A sud dell’anima.
Throughout the year, Minervino Murge hosts various events related to food and wine tradition, such as fairs, festivals, and tastings. The Cardoncello Mushroom Festival is one of the most important events, but Minervino also annually hosts a stage of the prestigious Locus Festival with internationally renowned singers.
Apulia attracts thousands of cycling enthusiasts every year. In a perspective of eco-compatible development and a bike-friendly attitude, the region has recognized and promoted cycling mobility since 2013, with strategic objectives and support actions for the creation of an integrated network of cycle routes throughout Apulia.
Casa Pistacchio is the ideal place to stop during your bike tour, offering a comfortable sheltered storage, an outdoor laundry, and all the necessary equipment for any type of maintenance.
We are happy to welcome your four-legged friends in a structure perfectly suited for them, with a large garden and many fields around. We also have bowls and beds available for our guests when needed.