Alberona
Latest page update: 23 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The village of Alberona is an official comune of the Foggia Province in Puglia. It's situated in the picturesque area known as the Tavoliere delle Puglie and close to the border with Campania.
On 1 January 2024 Alberona had an official population of 853 residents. The municipality covers a total geographical area of 49 square kilometres and reaches an elevation of 732 metres. |
What People Ask About Alberona, Puglia
Where is Alberona located?
Alberona is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy, in the province of Foggia. It sits in the Daunian Mountains at around 730 metres above sea level, approximately 40 km west of Foggia city.
What is Alberona known for?
Alberona is known for its medieval origins, stone-paved streets, and panoramic views of the Apulian plains. It is listed among Italy’s “Borghi più belli” and noted for its peaceful atmosphere, historic fountains, and connections to the Knights Templar.
Is Alberona worth visiting?
Yes, Alberona is worth visiting for those interested in quiet, traditional villages with a strong sense of history. It’s a good base for walking and exploring the lesser-known mountainous areas of northern Puglia.
What can you see in Alberona?
Main sights include the Templar Tower, several ancient fountains, the Church of San Rocco, and panoramic viewpoints. The village also hosts cultural events and is surrounded by walking routes through the Apennine foothills.
How do you get to Alberona?
Alberona is best reached by car from Foggia, with the drive taking around 50 minutes. The nearest train station is in Foggia, from where you can continue by road. Public transport is limited, so a car is recommended.
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Discover
Discover Alberona
The diminutive town of Alberona is situated among the Daunian Mountains which belong to the greater Apennines. It lies close to Puglia's regional border with Campania to its west in an area that's largely unheralded in terms of tourism. It's quite different from the Puglia that most people have in mind of white-washed houses and beaches, instead set among lush vegetation and rolling hills.
An historic, sleepy hill town, Alberona does however retain a special place in history. It was founded in 1258 by the Knights of Malta before being sold to the Templar Knights years later. There are still vestiges of the Templar Knights throughout the village: its main church the Chiesa Madre was founded by them, along with the Torre dei Priori watchtower. Other reminders of this historic period include the coat of arms of the Knights of Malta that can be seen on the Chiesa Madre.
An historic, sleepy hill town, Alberona does however retain a special place in history. It was founded in 1258 by the Knights of Malta before being sold to the Templar Knights years later. There are still vestiges of the Templar Knights throughout the village: its main church the Chiesa Madre was founded by them, along with the Torre dei Priori watchtower. Other reminders of this historic period include the coat of arms of the Knights of Malta that can be seen on the Chiesa Madre.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Alberona
- Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria Assunta: A beautiful church located in the heart of Alberona, the Chiesa Madre di Santa Maria Assunta is known for its simple yet elegant Romanesque architecture. The church’s interior is adorned with intricate frescoes and artwork, reflecting the town’s religious heritage. It’s a peaceful and important place for both locals and visitors.
- Piazza Plebiscito: The central square of Alberona, Piazza Plebiscito is surrounded by traditional buildings and offers a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore. The square often hosts local events, and nearby cafés make it a perfect place to sit and enjoy the atmosphere of the town. It is a key location for getting to know the town’s daily life.
- Castello di Alberona: This historical castle, now in ruins, sits on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The castle was originally built to defend the town, and while it is no longer intact, it still offers an intriguing glimpse into the past. It’s an excellent spot for visitors interested in the medieval history of the area.
Alberona Tours and Activities
Comune di Alberona
Province: Foggia
Region: Puglia Population: 853 (in 2024 - source) Size: 49 km² Elevation: 732 metres Highlights: Chiesa Madre, Torre dei Priori, Templar Knights history Close by: Roseto Valfortore, Bovino, Pietramontecorvino |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: Chiara, Fresche e Dolci Acque (Clear, Fresh and Sweet Waters) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2002 1 of 9 in Puglia listed by Touring Club Italiano |
Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Alberona
- Hotel Villaggio Macchia Mediterranea Located just outside Alberona, this charming hotel offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Puglian cuisine. Guests appreciate the tranquil setting, the relaxing atmosphere, and the proximity to local vineyards and nature. €€€ (high-end)
- B&B La Dolce Vita Situated in the heart of Alberona, this cosy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the personal touch of the hosts, the peaceful surroundings, and the easy access to the town’s main attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Le Fornaci Set in a rural area near Alberona, this agriturismo offers comfortable rooms with views of the countryside, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests value the authentic Puglian experience, the peaceful setting, and the short drive to Alberona’s historic sites and vineyards. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Monte Located near Alberona, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant with regional dishes, and a bar. Guests enjoy the central location, the friendly service, and the good value for money, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding Puglian countryside. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B La Casa del Nonno Located a short drive from Alberona, this bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms, a beautiful garden, and a delicious breakfast served each morning. Guests appreciate the personal touch of the hosts, the quiet atmosphere, and the easy access to the local nature reserves and historic attractions. €€ (mid-range)
Photo Gallery
Alberona Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Alberona
It's a surprising and fascinating aspect to a village that nowadays attracts visitors for other reasons. It appears not only on the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia, but also of the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag), a similar organisation that promotes Italian towns and villages. The idyllic setting among the unspoilt landscape offers a refreshing alternative to some of the better known attractions nearby such as the Gargano Peninsula or the beach resort of Termoli in the region of Molise.
If this type of landscape appeals then there are a number of similar locations in the area that are worth a visit. Just to the north of Alberona is an area known as the Tavoliere delle Puglie with its own rolling hills and prairies offering some wonderful landscapes. South of Alberona is another of the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia: Roseto Valfortore, while the historic Lucera with its beautiful cathedral is also recommended.
If this type of landscape appeals then there are a number of similar locations in the area that are worth a visit. Just to the north of Alberona is an area known as the Tavoliere delle Puglie with its own rolling hills and prairies offering some wonderful landscapes. South of Alberona is another of the Borghi Più Belli d'Italia: Roseto Valfortore, while the historic Lucera with its beautiful cathedral is also recommended.
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Alberona
By Rail: Alberona does not have its own train station. The nearest main station is Foggia, located approximately 40 kilometres away, and served by Trenitalia high-speed, Intercity, and regional trains. Journey times from Bari to Foggia are around 1 hour and 30 minutes, while from Rome they are approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes. From Foggia, Alberona can be reached by car or bus in about 50 minutes.
By Road: Alberona is situated in the Daunian Mountains of northern Apulia, about 40 kilometres west of Foggia and 25 kilometres south of Lucera. The town can be accessed via the SP130 and SP128 provincial roads. The drive from Foggia takes roughly 50 minutes, while the journey from Bari takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Roads are winding as they pass through hilly terrain. Parking is available at the edge of the historic centre and near the town’s main entrances.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Alberona is situated in the Daunian Mountains of northern Apulia, about 40 kilometres west of Foggia and 25 kilometres south of Lucera. The town can be accessed via the SP130 and SP128 provincial roads. The drive from Foggia takes roughly 50 minutes, while the journey from Bari takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Roads are winding as they pass through hilly terrain. Parking is available at the edge of the historic centre and near the town’s main entrances.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bari Airport (Aeroporto di Bari Karol Wojtyła): Located approximately 170 kilometres south-east of Alberona, the drive takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The airport offers a wide range of domestic and international connections.
- Naples Airport (Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino): Situated around 170 kilometres south-west, with a driving time of roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes. This is one of the busiest airports in southern Italy and serves destinations across Europe.
- Foggia Airport (Aeroporto di Foggia Gino Lisa): Located about 40 kilometres away, this small airport is undergoing redevelopment and offers limited regional services.
Puglia Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia
1. Lecce
2. Alberobello
3. Otranto
4. Gallipoli
5. Polignano a Mare
6. Monopoli
7. Vieste
8. Trani
9. Giovinazzo
10. Castel del Monte
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Puglia