Ostuni, Medieval hilltop commune in Apulia, Italy.
Ostuni is a medieval hilltop commune in Apulia, Italy. White lime buildings rise 218 meters above sea level, forming a network of narrow streets and small squares in the historic center.
The Normans founded the medieval settlement in 996, building a castle with walls and four entrance gates. In later centuries the place expanded under different rulers but kept its medieval layout.
The Museum of Preclassic Civilizations displays the cast of Delia, a pregnant woman from 25,000 years ago found in a nearby cave. Visitors see here artifacts from the region documenting life long before the first Greek settlements.
The old town sits on a hill and requires walking on uneven cobblestones and stairs. During summer the number of visitors rises considerably, so early mornings or off-season offer quieter conditions for exploring.
The tradition of painting buildings white began as a disinfection measure during historical plague outbreaks. Today residents renew the coating regularly to keep the bright appearance.
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