The hilltop town of Cisternino has a gorgeous setting on a section of the Murge Plateau. Ancient churches, historical buildings and whitewashed homes line streets that are approximately 1,300 feet (396 meters) above sea level. Tour centuries-old palaces and churches, explore the surrounding countryside and savor a meal prepared by one of the town's barbecuing butchers.
One of the first ports of call for many visitors is Cisternino's old town center. Amble along narrow, shaded streets past whitewashed homes adorned with flower boxes of geraniums and bougainvillea. See the Governor’s Palace, a beautiful Baroque building from the 16th century. Study the elegant façade of the Bishop’s Palace, another building from the 16th century. One of its standout features is the partially damaged coat of arms of the bishop who ordered the construction of the palace.
Find your way to the main square, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele, for its 19th-century clock tower. Other structures of architectural interest include the Norman-Swabian Tower, once part of the town's old defensive walls.
In common with many rural Italian towns and villages, Cisternino has a collection of old churches that are ripe for exploring. Visit the Church of St. Lucia, a one-room building from the 17th century. View the old frescoes in the 16th-century Church of Sant'Antonio. Step inside the Mother Church of St. Nicholas from Patara, a 15th-century church with numerous artistic treasures. Among them is a wooden statue of St. Nicholas, positioned on the High Altar.
When it comes to eating out, the town has plenty of fine dining and casual options, although you don't need a restaurant to eat well. Cisternino is known for its butchers who will grill your meat and serve it to your table in their shops or out on the street.
Reach Cisternino by flying into Bari and Brindisi, both of which are about a 1-hour drive away. During your stay in the town, make the most of the beautiful natural surroundings by taking excursions out into the countryside and along the coast. Hike through fields and forests and enjoy the beaches.
