The Bread Capital of Puglia - where medieval architecture meets culinary tradition and Neanderthal history
Culinary Heritage, Archaeology, Medieval History
Altamura
Altamura is best known as the Bread Capital of Puglia, home to the world's first DOP-protected bread (since 2003) - Pane di Altamura. The town is also the birthplace of Altamura Man, Europe's oldest and most complete Neanderthal skeleton (170,000 years old). Medieval architecture, artisanal bakeries, and proximity to Alta Murgia National Park make it a unique cultural and archaeological destination.
Must-See Attractions
Don't miss these highlights
Basilica Cattedrale Santa Maria Assunta
13th-century Romanesque masterpiece with towering bell tower and intricate rose window. Impressive architectural details and beautiful interior decoration representing medieval building excellence.
Artisanal Bakeries (Pane di Altamura)
Visit traditional bakeries throughout town producing the famous DOP-protected Pane di Altamura using durum wheat and ancient recipes. Wood-fired ovens produce fresh bread daily. Praised since Roman times (mentioned by Horace in 1st century BC).
Museo Nazionale Archeologico (National Archaeological Museum)
Features Altamura Man discovery - Europe's oldest, most complete Neanderthal skeleton (170,000 years old) found in nearby Lamalunga Cave. Includes replicas, in-depth exhibits, prehistoric and ancient history displays.
More Places to Visit
Additional attractions worth exploring
Historic Medieval Center
1.5-2 hoursCharming narrow alleyways and well-preserved medieval architecture including Palazzo Ducale, Porta Bari, and Porta Matera. Atmospheric squares and hidden courtyards showcasing traditional Apulian urban design.
Lamalunga Cave (Nearby Archaeological Site)
1.5-2 hoursPaleolithic significance site where the Altamura Man skeleton was discovered. Visited by guided tour with advance booking required.
Alta Murgia National Park
2-4 hoursClose proximity to Altamura with breathtaking rolling hills, rocky plateaus, ancient ruins scattered throughout, and hiking and biking trail networks.
Must-Try Foods
Local specialties you can't miss
Pane di Altamura (DOP)
breadDOP-protected durum wheat bread leavened with brittle exterior and chewy, straw-colored interior. First bread in Europe to receive PDO designation (2003). Handmade by artisanal bakers following ancient recipes. Praised since Roman times.
Orecchiette
pastaEar-shaped pasta made from durum wheat with traditional hand production methods using quality local ingredients.
Burrata
cheeseFresh cheese specialty from nearby Andria with creamy interior of stracciatella and cream.
Local Artisanal Cheese
cheeseTraditional production using sheep and goat milk from local pastures.
Primitivo Wine
wineRegional red wine varietal with full body and rich flavor.
Negroamaro Wine
wineLocal wine specialty serving as the region's signature red wine.
Recommended Experiences
Make the most of your visit
Bread-Making Workshop
Learn traditional durum wheat Pane di Altamura production techniques from local artisanal bakers using wood-fired ovens.
Cooking Class - Traditional Apulian Cuisine
Hands-on instruction in preparing traditional dishes using local ingredients and recipes passed through generations.
Guided Historical Tour
Medieval city center exploration with local historians discussing architecture, evolution, and cultural significance.
Archaeological Museum Tour
Comprehensive visit exploring Altamura Man discovery, Neanderthal specimens, and paleontological significance with museum interpretation.
Lamalunga Cave Archaeological Tour
Paleolithic site exploration with expert guides explaining the Neanderthal skeleton discovery and archaeological methodology (advance booking required).
Alta Murgia Hiking Tour
Guided hiking through national park trails, ancient ruins, natural landscapes, and archaeological sites.
Artisanal Bakery Tour
Visit multiple local bakeries, observe bread production, taste various styles, learn artisanal techniques.
Practical Information
Plan your visit
Best Time to Visit
April-May and September-October for comfortable exploration temperatures and wildflowers. Summer heat requires early morning visits
Average Stay
2-3 hours for main attractions; half-day to full day with museum and cave visits
Getting There
- ✈️ Bari Airport (75-85 km) - 1.5-2 hour drive
- 🚂 Ferrovie Appulo Lucane (FAL) direct service from Bari to Altamura - Travel time 1.5-2 hours from Bari central station
- 🚗 From Bari: 75-85 km via SS96 (1.5-2 hours). From Gravina: 20-25 km (30 minutes). From Matera: 30-35 km (45 minutes)
Nearby Destinations
Insider Tips
Local advice for visitors
Visit bakeries early morning to see fresh bread production and purchase warm loaves
DOP bread has excellent shelf life (up to 1 week) - perfect purchase for travel
Book bread-making classes in advance - popular activities
Book Lamalunga Cave tours well ahead - limited daily visitors
Comfortable walking shoes essential for medieval cobblestone streets
Photography equipment recommended for cathedral, medieval architecture, bread ovens
Combine with nearby Gravina (30 minutes away) for full-day archaeological itinerary
Book cooking and archaeological tours in advance
Summer early morning exploration recommended to avoid midday heat
Local restaurants serve traditional cuisine at reasonable prices
Spring wildflowers and autumn temperatures offer most comfortable conditions
The bread's Roman-era significance (Horace mentioned it 2,000 years ago) adds historic dimension
Small historic center - 2-3 hours sufficient for main attractions
Consider combining with Matera UNESCO site (30 minutes away) for comprehensive history experience
Ready to Visit?
Find the perfect accommodation in Altamura and experience authentic Apulian hospitality.
Book your Stay! in Altamura
