Tavoliere delle Puglie
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 17 January 2024
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The Tavoliere delle Puglie is a scenic region of countryside in the Province of Foggia, covering a geographical area of around 3,000 square kilometres.
Highlights of the region include the towns of Lucera, Foggia, San Severo, Cerignola, Bovino and Troia, while Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport is an hour and 50 minutes away by car. |
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Profile
The Tavoliere delle Puglie, often referred to simply as the Tavoliere, is a large plain located in the Apulia region of southern Italy. It is one of the most extensive and fertile plains in the country and plays a crucial role in the region's agriculture and economy.
The region covers an area of approximately 3,000 square kilometers (1,158 square miles) and is bounded by the Gargano Peninsula to the north, the Apennine Mountains to the west, the Adriatic Sea to the east, and the Daunian Mountains to the south. The landscape is characterized by its vast, flat expanses, making it an ideal location for large-scale agriculture.
The fertile soil of the Tavoliere is primarily composed of clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits brought by rivers over millennia. It is especially suitable for the cultivation of wheat, barley, olives, grapes, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
The region covers an area of approximately 3,000 square kilometers (1,158 square miles) and is bounded by the Gargano Peninsula to the north, the Apennine Mountains to the west, the Adriatic Sea to the east, and the Daunian Mountains to the south. The landscape is characterized by its vast, flat expanses, making it an ideal location for large-scale agriculture.
The fertile soil of the Tavoliere is primarily composed of clay, limestone, and alluvial deposits brought by rivers over millennia. It is especially suitable for the cultivation of wheat, barley, olives, grapes, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
History
The Tavoliere delle Puglie has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was once part of the territories inhabited by the ancient Daunians and Peucetians, pre-Roman peoples of Apulia. Throughout the centuries, the plain has been a strategic and contested area, with different civilizations leaving their mark on the landscape.
In medieval times, the Tavoliere became part of the Kingdom of Naples and was later under various feudal domains until the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Since then, the plain has played a significant role in Italy's agriculture, providing a substantial portion of the country's grain production.
In medieval times, the Tavoliere became part of the Kingdom of Naples and was later under various feudal domains until the unification of Italy in the 19th century. Since then, the plain has played a significant role in Italy's agriculture, providing a substantial portion of the country's grain production.
Key features
- Agriculture and Landscapes: The vast fields of wheat and other crops create a picturesque rural setting, particularly during the growing seasons when the landscape is covered in green.
- Nature and Birdwatching: The Tavoliere is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
- Cultural Heritage: In the towns and villages surrounding the Tavoliere, visitors can explore historic churches, castles, and traditional rural architecture, showcasing the region's historical and cultural heritage.
- Food and Wine: The Tavoliere's fertile soil produces high-quality agricultural products, providing visitors with an opportunity to savor authentic Pugliese cuisine and local wines.
- Outdoor Activities: The vast, flat landscape is suitable for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding, offering visitors a chance to explore the region's natural beauty.
- Tranquility: Unlike more crowded tourist destinations, the Tavoliere offers a tranquil and authentic experience of rural Italy, allowing visitors to unwind and immerse themselves in the peaceful surroundings.
Tavoliere delle Puglie
Province: Foggia
Region: Puglia Size: 3,000 km² Highlights: Lucera, Foggia, San Severo, Cerignola, Bovino, Troia Fly to: Bari Karol Wojtyla Airport - 1 hour 50 minutes (170 km) Recommended accommodation: FLOS Guest House (Lucera) |