Conversano​

Latest page update: 20 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
​The historic town of Conversano is situated in the Metropolitan City of Bari province in Puglia and has a population of around 26,000 residents. Standing at an elevation of 219 metres above sea level it covers a total area of 128 square kilometres.

Main sights in the town include the sixth century Conversano Castle and the eleventh century Romanesque cathedral.
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Discover

Discover Conversano
Without a doubt the most recognisable and iconic sight in Conversano is its castle; it was believed to exist during the Gothic War of the sixth century but underwent significant reconstruction by the Normans in the eleventh century. The interior of the castle hosts an art gallery exhibiting work by Neapolitan artist Paolo Domenico Finoglio and is indeed named after him: Pinacoteca Civica - Palo Finoglio. 

​The castle occupies the north-eastern corner of the centro storico, the historic centre while just a short walk towards the centre brings you to Conversano Cathedral. The magnificent Romanesque facade of the Cathedral conceals a Baroque twist in its interior after a some renovation work in the 17th century. With such a long history dating back a thousand years, the building has received many restorations with the most recent one completed in 2012. ​
Monastero San Benedetto
​Gracing the skyline of Conversano are two majolica-clad towers, both of which belong to the 6th century Monastero San Benedetto. The original inhabitants of the monastery were Benedictine monks who were replaced by Cistercian nuns in 1266.

​The interior of the monastery includes a pretty cloister as well as an archaeological museum. One of the decorated ceramic structures is the church dome while the other is its campanile: the square bell tower which rises slightly higher.
City wall
The most attractive area of the town is that surrounding the castle; a wide-open public space, it's home to a number of shops and restaurants, most of which have outside seating, as well as a park area with a modern amphitheatre. Around this same area and just to the south of the castle is a section of 6th century BC megalithic defensive wall next to the Porta Tarantina city gate. ​
Travel
​Although there are some bus and train services around the area, the easiest way to explore it is with a rental car. Eleven kilometres east of Conversano is one of the best seaside towns in Italy: Polignano a Mare which takes around 15 minutes to reach by car.
Close to Conversano
Further south along the coast from Polignano is the attractive fishing port of Monopoli while inland and directly south of Conversano is another of Puglia's main visitor attractions: the Trulli houses of Alberobello, a drive of just over half an hour.

Roughly the same distance north brings you to Bari, the capital city of Puglia but try to avoid arriving at busy times as the traffic can be horrendous. The best time to drive into Bari is between 13:30 and 15:00 during the lunch time lull. 

A final little aside on Conversano: for anyone learning Italian and curious about the town's name: it does indeed translate as "they talk". 

Things to Do

Things to Do in Conversano
  • Centro Storico di Conversano rises gently on a hilltop, its streets winding among noble palaces, medieval arches, and quiet alleys paved with pale limestone. The town radiates southern elegance, with ornate façades and glimpses of sunlit piazzas. Small courtyards reveal gardens and artisan workshops. Walking here offers a journey into a place where history and art flourish side by side.
  • Castello Acquaviva d’Aragona dominates the town’s skyline, its massive towers and stone ramparts recalling centuries of noble rule. Inside are grand halls, art exhibitions, and traces of Renaissance architecture. Climbing its towers offers panoramic views. The castle remains Conversano’s proudest symbol of feudal power.
  • Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta stands elegantly in the town centre, its Romanesque façade crowned by a striking rose window. Inside are baroque altars, marble columns, and sacred artworks. The cathedral has long shaped Conversano’s spiritual life. It remains a cherished emblem of the town’s artistic heritage.
  • Piazza Castello serves as Conversano’s lively heart, bordered by historic buildings, cafés, and artisan shops. The square hosts markets, concerts, and vibrant festivals under clear skies. Cobblestones and castle views create an elegant atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to savour daily life in Conversano.
  • Guided historical and culinary tours in Conversano lead visitors through medieval streets, noble residences, and olive groves surrounding the town. Local guides share stories of powerful counts, artistic treasures, and traditional cuisine. Tours often include tastings of local cheeses, olive oil, and Puglian wines. Exploring reveals Conversano’s blend of history, artistry, and authentic regional flavour.
Conversano Tours and Activities
Comune di Conversano
Province: Metropolitan City of Bari

Region: Puglia

​Population: 25,808​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 128 km²

Elevation: 219 metres

​Close by: Polignano a Mare, Monopoli, Selva di Fasano, Bari

Recommended accommodation: Hotel ​d'Aragona

  Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Conversano

Photo Gallery

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

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