Altamura, Italy: Guide to the Best Things to Do and See

Visit Altamura, Puglia and Discover Ancient Streets, Legendary Bread, and Dinosaur Footprints with our Authentic Guide

The smell of wood-fired bread drifts through narrow limestone alleys. Cathedral bells echo across a piazza where locals gather for their evening passeggiata. Welcome to Altamura, the “City of Bread,” a place where 130,000-year-old Neanderthal remains share the spotlight with Europe’s only PDO-certified bread. Perched on the Murge plateau just 20 minutes from Matera and 45 minutes from Bari, this medieval town offers what larger Puglian destinations cannot: authentic southern Italian life without the crowds. In this guide, you will discover what to see, where to eat, and how to experience Altamura like the locals do.

Where Is Altamura and Why Visit?

Altamura sits on the Alta Murgia plateau in Puglia’s Bari province, at 450 meters above sea level.

The town lies close to the Basilicata border, making it a natural gateway between two of southern Italy’s most fascinating regions. From Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport, it takes roughly 45 minutes by car. Matera, the famous “City of Sassi,” is just 20 minutes away, while Gravina in Puglia and the trulli village of Alberobello are equally accessible for day trips.

The elevation brings cooler summers than the coast and a landscape of rolling wheat fields, wild herbs, and ancient olive groves. Part of the town’s territory falls within the Alta Murgia National Park, protecting a rugged karst environment that has shaped local life for millennia. This is farming country, where traditions run deep and the pace of life follows the seasons.

So, is Altamura worth visiting? Absolutely. This is a place where history spans from Neanderthals to medieval emperors, where the bread has been praised since 37 BC, and where over 80 traditional claustri courtyards hide behind ancient stone walls.

Unlike busier Puglian destinations like Polignano or Ostuni, Altamura rewards travelers who want genuine local experiences. The town earned its nickname “Lioness of Puglia” after residents bravely resisted Bourbon forces during the 1799 revolution.

That independent spirit remains alive in its artisan bakeries, family-run trattorias, and proud locals who are happy to share their traditions with curious visitors. If you are looking for authentic southern Italy without the tourist crowds, Altamura delivers.

A Brief History of Altamura

Altamura’s story begins 130,000 years ago with Neanderthals roaming these limestone hills.

The discovery of the Altamura Man in 1993, one of the most complete Neanderthal skeletons ever found, proved that this region has been home to human life for far longer than most places in Europe. Fast forward to the Bronze Age, and you find settlements and burial sites scattered across the plateau, with some fifty ancient tumuli still dotting the countryside.

Between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC, inhabitants built massive megalithic walls that gave the city its name: Alta Mura (“high walls”). These defensive structures, built without mortar from enormous limestone blocks, can still be seen in parts of Corso Umberto I. The ancient city thrived until Saracen raids reportedly devastated it around the 10th century.

The town as we know it was refounded in 1232 by Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, one of the most fascinating figures in medieval history. He invited Italians, Greeks, and Jews to settle here, granting them special privileges. Each community established its own neighborhood, creating the claustri courtyards that still define the old town’s character. Frederick commissioned the magnificent cathedral that dominates Piazza Duomo, making Altamura one of only four Palatine churches in Puglia, answering directly to the emperor rather than to any bishop.

In 1799, Altamura joined the short-lived Parthenopean Republic and resisted the Sanfedisti forces loyal to the Bourbon monarchy. Though the city eventually fell after fierce fighting, its courage earned the epithet “Lioness of Puglia.” That proud, independent spirit remains alive in every corner of the old town, from the bakeries that have passed recipes through generations to the locals who fiercely protect their traditions.

What to Do and See in Altamura

Altamura’s historic center is compact and best explored on foot. Within a few hours, you can visit all the main attractions while leaving time to wander the atmospheric alleys and discover your own hidden corners. Start at Piazza Duomo and let curiosity guide you through the claustri, past ancient bakeries, and into small churches that most tourists never find. Here are the highlights you should not miss.

Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta

Altamura’s crown jewel stands in Piazza Duomo: the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, commissioned by Frederick II between 1232 and 1254. This is the only cathedral in Puglia built by imperial will, blending Romanesque weight, Gothic pointed arches, and Byzantine capitals.

The twin bell towers rise above the city, visible from beyond the old walls. The 14th-century Gothic portal is the star attraction, supported by columns resting on stone lions and decorated with 22 carved biblical scenes. Above it, a rose window with 15 radiating rays catches the afternoon light. Inside, the three-nave basilica features a decorated wooden ceiling, 16th-century choir stalls, and a remarkable stone nativity scene by Altobello Persio from 1587.

The Historic Center and Claustri

Altamura’s old town is a medieval maze of narrow streets and golden limestone buildings. The real treasures are the claustri: over 80 small, enclosed courtyards historically used as communal spaces by different ethnic communities. Look for Claustro Dionisio Ricchetti and Claustro Piofal among the most atmospheric.

Wandering these alleys, you will pass the famous Arco Basso, one of the lowest arches in Europe at just 140 centimeters high. Porta Bari and Porta Matera mark the ancient gates. Small churches like San Nicola dei Greci reward those who explore beyond the main square.

Piazza Duomo

The main square is the beating heart of Altamura. Frederick II ordered houses demolished to create this space before the cathedral. Today, cafés and gelaterias line the edges, and locals gather here for the evening passeggiata. A monument to the fallen of 1799, created by sculptor Arnaldo Zocchi, stands at the center. This is the perfect spot to sit with an espresso, watch daily life unfold, and appreciate the cathedral facade as afternoon light warms the stone.

Palazzo Baldassarre and the Altamura Man Museum

This elegant 16th-century noble palace now houses the Museum of Human Evolution, dedicated to Altamura’s most ancient resident. In 1993, speleologists discovered a remarkably preserved Neanderthal skeleton in nearby Lamalunga Cave. Nicknamed “Ciccillo” by locals, this 130,000-year-old man remains embedded in the cave rock. At Palazzo Baldassarre, you can see reconstructions and learn about the discovery through multimedia exhibits. The building also serves as a tourist info point.

MUDIMA: Diocesan Museum

Located inside the cathedral’s upper matroneum galleries, MUDIMA was established in 2016 to preserve sacred art from Altamura’s churches. The collection includes medieval liturgical objects, reliquaries, notarial documents, and statues from the 1400s and 1500s. It is a small but worthwhile complement to your cathedral visit, offering a deeper look into the city’s religious heritage.

Exploring Natural Wonders Around Altamura

The territory around Altamura holds surprises that rival anything within the old town. The Alta Murgia plateau is a karst landscape shaped by millions of years of water and wind, creating sinkholes, caves, and rocky trails perfect for outdoor exploration. More remarkably, this area preserves evidence of life spanning from dinosaurs to Neanderthals. Set aside at least half a day to venture beyond the city walls.

The Dinosaur Footprints at Cava Pontrelli

In May 1999, geologists discovered something extraordinary in the Pontrelli quarry outside Altamura: over 30,000 dinosaur footprints dating back 85 million years to the Cretaceous period. These tracks record the passage of numerous species during ancient migrations, making this one of the most important paleontological sites in Europe. The quarry itself has limited public access, but you can see some footprints at the National Archaeological Museum and through occasional guided tours.

Il Pulo di Altamura

Just outside town, the Pulo is a massive karst sinkhole measuring 500 meters across and 75 meters deep. This natural amphitheater contains caves that sheltered prehistoric humans during the Neolithic period. Today, it is a popular hiking destination within the Alta Murgia National Park, offering panoramic views of the rolling Murge plateau. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and a camera.

Grotta di Lamalunga

The cave where the Altamura Man was discovered remains closed to protect the fragile skeleton. However, the Lamalunga Visitor Center offers educational exhibits and a 3D film about the discovery. It provides fascinating context for understanding Neanderthal life in this region and complements a visit to Palazzo Baldassarre.

Pane di Altamura: Discover The Legendary Bread

You cannot visit Altamura without understanding why its bread is legendary. In 37 BC, the Roman poet Horace described it as “far the best bread to be had,” advising wise travelers to carry a supply for their journey. In 2003, Pane di Altamura became the only bread in Europe to receive Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. It is also a Slow Food Presidium.

Altamura Bread Four Ingredients

What makes Pane di Altamura special is its simplicity. Only four ingredients are permitted under the PDO regulations:

• Durum wheat semolina (semola rimacinata): Must be from specific local varieties (Appulo, Arcangelo, Duilio, or Simeto) grown in the Alta Murgia region. At least 80% must come from within the designated production area.
• Natural sourdough starter (lievito madre): Yes, Altamura bread is a sourdough. Some bakeries use starters that have been kept alive for over 100 years, passed down through generations.
• Sea salt (sale marino): Added to enhance flavor and strengthen the gluten structure.
• Water: Local water from the Murgia aquifer, which has a specific mineral content that contributes to the bread’s character.

Why is it Special? The Traditional Preparation Method

The PDO regulations specify not just ingredients but also the entire production process. The sourdough starter is refreshed at least three times before use. Ingredients are mixed for 20 minutes, then the dough rests under a cotton cloth for at least 90 minutes. After weighing, the dough undergoes two manual shaping phases with additional resting periods.

Baking happens in wood-fired or gas ovens at 250°C. The first 15 minutes are done with the oven door open, allowing steam to escape. Then the door closes for another 45 minutes. This technique creates the signature crust: at least 3mm thick, golden-brown, and wonderfully crispy.

The result has a pale yellow crumb with uniform holes and a distinctive aroma with hints of toasted coffee. Traditional shapes include the “accavallata” (u sckuanète), a high folded form, and “cappello di prete” (priest’s hat), a flatter round with a cross cut into the top. The bread stays fresh for up to two weeks, which was essential for farmers working long days in the Murge fields.

A charming tradition: until the mid-20th century, families would knead their dough at home, stamp it with their initials, and bring it to public ovens for baking. The baker would mark each loaf so families could claim their bread when it emerged from the flames.

Where to Find the Best Altamura Bread

Where to Eat and Drink in Altamura

Altamura’s food culture extends far beyond bread. The town sits in prime agricultural territory, with cuisine rooted in Murge traditions: olive oil pressed from ancient groves, handmade pasta, grilled meats from local farms, and wild cardoncelli mushrooms foraged from the surrounding plateau. Eating here is an education in authentic Puglian cooking, without the tourist markup you will find in coastal towns.

Altamura Best Restaurants and Trattorias

Altamura’s dining scene is refreshingly authentic. You will not find many menus in English or waiters who speak multiple languages, but you will find honest cooking and generous portions at fair prices. Here are our top recommendations:

• Ristorante/Pizzeria Binario 24 (Piazza Stazione): Located near the old train station, this spot serves excellent wood-fired pizzas and classic Puglian dishes. The wine list features local labels worth exploring. Perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
• Il Teatro del Gusto (Piazza Mercadante): A small bistro in the heart of town known for creative gourmet sandwiches and focaccia with inventive toppings. The staff are genuinely friendly, and it is ideal for a quick but quality lunch.
• Antica Osteria Pein Assutt: The name means “full belly” in local dialect, and they deliver on the promise. Traditional Altamurana cuisine includes homemade pasta, grilled meats, and of course, fresh bread with every meal.
• Origini Vino & Cucina: Excellent for those who want thoughtful wine pairings with their meal. The menu focuses on local ingredients prepared with contemporary touches.
• Gioja Ristorante: For a more refined dining experience, this restaurant offers elevated takes on regional cuisine in an elegant setting.

Local Specialties to Try

Beyond bread and focaccia, Altamura and the surrounding Murgia region offer distinctive foods you should seek out:

• Lenticchie di Altamura IGP: Small, flavorful lentils with IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) status. Look for them in hearty soups and stews, especially in cooler months.
• Funghi cardoncelli: Wild king oyster mushrooms that grow on the Murgia plateau, especially prized in autumn. They appear grilled, in pasta, or preserved in olive oil. September brings an entire festival dedicated to them.
• Focaccia pugliese: Thick, pillowy flatbread generously topped with cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and sometimes olives. Best eaten warm from the bakery as a mid-morning snack.
• Sospiri (Tette di monaca): Soft sponge cakes filled with custard or ricotta cream, topped with a sugar glaze. The name translates to “nun’s sighs” and they are a traditional celebratory sweet.
• Burrata and local cheeses: The Murgia produces excellent dairy. Look for fresh mozzarella, creamy burrata, and aged pecorino at cheese shops and markets.
• Orecchiette: The iconic ear-shaped pasta of Puglia, served with various sauces from simple tomato to turnip tops (cime di rapa).

Hungry for more? Discover authentic Puglia flavors in our Bari street food guide!

Wine and Aperitivo in Altamura

The hills around Altamura produce robust wines worth discovering. Look for Primitivo or Aglianico reds to pair with grilled meats, or crisp Gravina DOC whites with seafood or vegetable dishes. Several wine bars in the old town offer tastings alongside local cheese and charcuterie boards. For a proper aperitivo experience, grab a table at one of the bars on Piazza Duomo around 6pm and watch the evening passeggiata unfold while sipping a spritz or local wine.

Experiences and Activities to Do in Altamura

Beyond sightseeing, Altamura offers hands-on ways to connect with local culture. Cooking classes let you learn to make orecchiette or traditional bread. Food tours lead you through the old town sampling focaccia, cheeses, and pastries. The surrounding Alta Murgia National Park is perfect for hiking and cycling.

Cycling is particularly rewarding here. The relatively flat terrain makes Altamura an ideal starting point for two-wheeled exploration. Ride to Il Pulo, venture toward Gravina in Puglia (about 12 km away), or explore rural masserie at your own pace.

Day Trips from Altamura

Altamura’s strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring the region:

• Matera (20 minutes): The UNESCO-listed “City of Sassi” with its ancient cave dwellings is unmissable.
• Gravina in Puglia (20 minutes): A dramatic ravine town with medieval charm, the Bond-famous Ponte Acquedotto bridge, and excellent local wine and cheese.
• Bari (45 minutes): the Adriatic capital offers countless things to do, a lively old town, the Basilica di San Nicola, and streets where women still make orecchiette by hand.
• Alberobello (40 minutes): The UNESCO trulli village with over 1,500 cone-roofed stone houses.
• Castel del Monte (45 minutes): Frederick II’s mysterious octagonal castle, another UNESCO site.

Festivals and Events

• Federicus (late April): A spectacular three-day medieval festival celebrating Frederick II. Costumed parades, knights, medieval markets, and performances transform the historic center.
• Festival dei Funghi Cardoncelli (September): Chefs and producers celebrate the prized local mushroom with creative dishes and wine.
• Le Vie del Pane (mid-October): A tribute to Altamura’s bread and other Italian PDO products, with baking demonstrations, tastings, and workshops.
• Festa di San Giuseppe (March 19): A religious procession through town with the tradition of distributing blessed bread.

How to Get to Altamura and Get Around

Getting to Altamura:

• By air: Fly into Bari Karol Wojtyła Airport (BRI), the nearest major airport.
• By train: Take the Ferrovie Appulo-Lucane (FAL) line from Bari to Altamura (about 1 hour). The same line continues to Matera.
• By car: About 45-60 minutes from Bari via SS96, 20-30 minutes from Matera.

Getting around:

• The historic center is best explored on foot. It is compact and mostly pedestrian-friendly. Bring comfortable shoes for cobblestones.
• Important: The old town is a ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato). Driving inside is restricted and may result in fines. Park in lots outside the historic center.
• For sites outside town (Il Pulo, countryside, nearby towns), consider renting a bike, scooter, or car.
• The train station allows easy day trips to Matera (20 min) and Bari without needing a vehicle.

Where to Stay in Altamura? Hotels and Masserias

Altamura offers a range of accommodations, often at better value than busier tourist destinations:

• Hotel San Nicola: 4-star hotel in a historic palazzo, right in the center.
• Malandrì B&B: Highly-rated, cozy, with friendly hosts and excellent location.
• Hotel Fuori le Mura: Modern hotel just outside the old town with parking, convenient for drivers.
• Il Campanile Premium B&B: Charming option with cathedral views.
• Masseria La Meridiana: A restored countryside farmhouse for those seeking rural tranquility.

Practical Tips for Visiting Altamura

Final Thoughts

Altamura may not have the fame of Rome or Florence, but that is precisely its charm. This is a place where history spans 130,000 years, where bread is an art form, and where southern Italian hospitality feels genuine. Come for the cathedral and the focaccia, stay for the quiet evenings in Piazza Duomo. Whether you use Altamura as a base for exploring Puglia or simply spend a day wandering its medieval streets, you will leave with a deeper appreciation for authentic Italian life.

Altamura is ready to welcome you with the aroma of freshly baked bread and open arms. Buon viaggio!

Altamura FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a trip to Altamura? Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask about visiting this Puglian gem.

Is Altamura worth visiting?

Absolutely. Altamura offers a rare combination of prehistoric discoveries, medieval architecture, and culinary excellence without the crowds of more famous destinations. It is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Puglian experiences.

What is Altamura famous for?

Altamura is most famous for its PDO bread (the only bread in Europe with this status), the 13th-century cathedral built by Frederick II, and the discovery of the Altamura Man, a 130,000-year-old Neanderthal skeleton.

Is Altamura bread sourdough?

Yes. Pane di Altamura is made with natural sourdough starter (lievito madre), along with durum wheat semolina, sea salt, and water. The slow fermentation gives it its distinctive flavor and long shelf life.

How do I get to Altamura from Bari?

Take the FAL (Ferrovie Appulo-Lucane) train from Bari, which takes about one hour. By car, the drive is approximately 45-60 minutes via the SS96.

Can you visit the Altamura Man?

The original skeleton remains in Lamalunga Cave and is not accessible to the public. However, you can see reconstructions and learn about the discovery at Palazzo Baldassarre (Museum of Human Evolution) and the Lamalunga Visitor Center.

What should I eat in Altamura?

Start with Pane di Altamura and focaccia from a traditional bakery. Try the local lentils, cardoncelli mushrooms (in season), orecchiette pasta, and finish with sospiri pastries. Pair everything with local Primitivo or Gravina wines.

You Might Also Be Interested In:

• Ostuni, Puglia: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Italy’s White City
• Cisternino, Puglia: Travel Guide to Valle d’Itria’s Most Authentic Town
• Day Trips from Bari: Local’s Guide to Puglia’s Best One-Day Adventures