Monopoli and Otranto, two towns in Puglia, receive a daily catch of fish, lobster, clams, sea urchin, octopus — eaten raw (crudo) or simply grilled. Almond trees, from which artisans make sweets like dolcetti di pasta di mandoria (almond paste cakes) and dreamy, sugar-covered almonds, are also numerous. When the Viceroy sent tax inspectors to audit the Count, the peasants simply and easily dismantled the huts. The word “alberobello” means the land of battles, because the locals fought to gain their freedom from the Count. The old part of town has numerous restaurants and pastry shops — a satisfactory ending to the experience of Puglia, truly a hidden gem and, surely, a divine favorite.

Source: Philippine Star April 13, 2019 16:04 UTC