Visiting Andria is a unique experience that allows you to immerse yourself in the history, culture and authentic flavors of Puglia. This fascinating city, located in the province of Barletta-Andria-Trani, has ancient origins and a history rich in events.
Founded in medieval times, Andria was one of the cities of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, it is no coincidence that he built the famous Castel del Monte, here, today a World Heritage Site. With its delicate mix of traditions, artistic and gastronomic beauties, Andria represents an unmissable stop for those who want to discover the most authentic Puglia.
You can visit Andria with one of our tours in Puglia:
What to see in Andria
When you decide to visit Andria, one of the first things to do is explore its priceless cultural heritage. In fact, every corner of the city preserves historical and artistic testimonies that fascinate visitors of every era. If you want to spend a day visiting Andria, we have prepared a list of things to see and visit:
- Castel del Monte
- Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
- Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Miracoli
- Palazzo Ducale
- Church of Sant'Agostino
- Historic Center of Andria
And now let's set off together to discover these places!
Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte is undoubtedly the most well-known and representative symbol of Andria. This majestic and fascinating fortress with a characteristic octagonal shape, built in the 13th century by order of Frederick II of Swabia, is shrouded in an aura of mystery. Its perfect geometric shape and the skillful use of local limestone make it unique in the world. In addition to its architectural beauty, the castle offers a spectacular view of the Apulian countryside. Visitors can explore its internal rooms, where temporary exhibitions and guided tours illustrate the history and theories about its use.
Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
Located in the heart of the historic center, this cathedral is a fascinating example of Romanesque art to which typical Gothic architectural elements have been added. Inside are the remains of San Riccardo, the city's patron saint, kept in a precious urn. The simple but imposing facade is flanked by a bell tower that dominates the panorama. The crypt below holds ancient evidence of Andria's religious history.
Sanctuary of the Madonna dei Miracoli
This place of worship is a point of reference for the faithful from all over Puglia. The sanctuary is divided into two parts: an ancient crypt, decorated with frescoes of great value, and a modern basilica. During the year, numerous pilgrims come here to pray and participate in the celebrations in honor of the Madonna.
Palazzo Ducale
Ancient residence of the Carafa family, the Palazzo Ducale is a symbol of the noble power that has marked the history of Andria. The structure is now home to cultural events, temporary exhibitions and artistic events. Its interiors, rich in history, allow you to relive the atmosphere of noble life of the time.
Church of Sant'Agostino
A jewel of Gothic architecture, this church is one of the oldest in Andria. The carved portal is a masterpiece of medieval art, with details that tell religious scenes. Inside, there are frescoes and decorations in Baroque style, which welcome visitors with a visual spectacle of great impact.
Historic Center of Andria
The ancient heart of the city is a place to explore calmly. Narrow, paved alleys lead to picturesque squares and ancient stone buildings. Among the artisan workshops and small shops, you can discover typical products and unique objects.
Every corner tells stories of a rich and fascinating past.
What to do in Andria - Slow Active Tours's proposal
Visiting Andria also means immersing yourself in cultural and artistic experiences. The city offers a variety of museums and activities that satisfy every type of visitor.
Among the most appreciated experiences, there is the visit to the Museo del Confetto Mucci Giovanni, where it is possible to discover the history and production of one of the city's confectionery excellences.
Contemporary art enthusiasts can explore exhibition spaces such as the Labyrinth of Contemporary Art, while history lovers can take part in guided tours of the city's main historical sites.
Marano public gardens , is recommended, a green area ideal for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty during their stay in Andria.
The surroundings of Andria offer suggestive landscapes and direct contact with nature. The centuries-old olive groves and vineyards are perfect for hiking or cycling. The dry-stone walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, characterize this unique landscape.
Festivals and popular celebrations in Andria
Another good reason to visit Andria is to take part in its many festivals and popular celebrations, which represent a unique opportunity to learn about local traditions. Among the most important events is the Feast of San Riccardo, the patron saint of the city, which is celebrated every year on September 9 with processions, fireworks displays and moments of prayer.
Particularly felt by the local community is the Sagra del Confetto e del Torrone, dedicated to two gastronomic symbols of Andria. During this event, it is possible to taste traditional sweets and discover ancient recipes handed down for generations.
In the summer, Andria also hosts cultural and musical events, such as open-air concerts and theatrical performances that enliven the historic center.
Typical dishes of Andria
A trip to visit Andria cannot be considered complete without tasting the local cuisine.
The city is famous for the burrata di Andria, a fresh and creamy cheese that has conquered the palates of many gourmets around the world.
Among the first courses, the orecchiette with turnip tops and the troccoli with meat sauce , stand out, accompanied by a good glass of Nero di Troia wine, produced in the vineyards of the area. Among the second courses, the meat chops with sauce cannot be missed. To finish on a sweet note, the artisanal confetti and the nougat are a must!
Eat and Drink in Andria
Here are some suggestions from the area:
Soip Amaur - Piazza Balilla, 17. The elegant rustic environment drags you into a mix of good smells and exquisite flavors of high quality products, starting from the cold cuts platter up to the original pizzas.
Il Polpo Riccio - Via la Corte, 2 - Tel. +39 3883888617. Here, the culinary tradition of Puglia meets the freshness of local fish, giving life to simple dishes but rich in flavor. Dishes prepared with care, with the freshest and seasonal ingredients.
Il turacciolo, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, 4. Informal atmosphere with paper placemats in a wine bar-wine shop in the center, where you can taste regional cuisine, which surprises in some dishes for its imagination and modernity. In summer the pleasant outdoor area is on the sidewalk in front of a lively square.
So what are you waiting for? Backpack on your shoulders and off you go!
