Noicattaro, Italian comune
Noicattaro is a small commune in Puglia nestled between two shallow valleys and surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and farming land. The town features narrow streets lined with historic buildings in baroque style and several churches that serve as the center of community life.
Originally called Noja, the town was established during the medieval period possibly by refugees from Dalmatia about one thousand years ago. The name changed to Noicattaro in 1863 to avoid confusion with another town, while the settlement grew through agriculture and later viticulture.
Holy Week processions are central to community identity, with residents wearing dark robes and hoods as they carry religious statues through narrow streets in solemn remembrance. These rituals connect families across generations and reflect how deeply faith shapes daily life and shared values.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best times to explore, as streets are quieter and temperatures remain comfortable. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended since the narrow, historic streets can be uneven and encourage wandering through the surrounding vineyards.
Underground tunnels beneath Palazzo Santoro date to the 1600s and were originally used for storing wine and flour, later repurposed for weaving cotton and linen cloth. These hidden chambers offer a rare glimpse into the artisanal economy of earlier centuries.
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