Cinta Muraria di Ostuni (Ostuni City Walls), Ostuni
The Ostuni City Walls, also known as the "White City" walls, stand as a testament to the rich history and defensive heritage of this captivating Italian town. These ancient fortifications, dating back to the invasion of Angioni, were originally constructed to safeguard the old town of Ostuni from external threats. They represent not only a vital part of Ostuni's architectural landscape but also a link to the town's storied past.
The history of these protective walls is intertwined with various historical events and periods. Following the devastating earthquake of 1456, the Aragonese rulers of the region recognized the importance of restoring and expanding the defensive perimeter of Ostuni. As a result, the city walls underwent significant renovations, reinforcing their role as a safeguard against potential invaders.
One can only imagine the scenes that played out atop these walls during times of siege. From their vantage point, defenders would hurl stones and even boiling oil down upon any adversaries attempting to breach the city's defenses.
The city walls featured four entrances: Porta San Francesco, Porta del Ponte, Porta Nova, and Porta San Demetrio. While the first two have not survived the passage of time, Porta Nova and Porta San Demetrio remain as historic gateways to the old town.
For those who choose to saunter along the city walls, a unique experience awaits. As you walk atop these ancient fortifications, you can take in the serene vistas of the Adriatic Sea, with its shimmering waters extending to the horizon. Below, the checkerboard pattern of olive groves surrounds the old city, offering a picturesque backdrop that enhances the charm of this historic setting.
The history of these protective walls is intertwined with various historical events and periods. Following the devastating earthquake of 1456, the Aragonese rulers of the region recognized the importance of restoring and expanding the defensive perimeter of Ostuni. As a result, the city walls underwent significant renovations, reinforcing their role as a safeguard against potential invaders.
One can only imagine the scenes that played out atop these walls during times of siege. From their vantage point, defenders would hurl stones and even boiling oil down upon any adversaries attempting to breach the city's defenses.
The city walls featured four entrances: Porta San Francesco, Porta del Ponte, Porta Nova, and Porta San Demetrio. While the first two have not survived the passage of time, Porta Nova and Porta San Demetrio remain as historic gateways to the old town.
For those who choose to saunter along the city walls, a unique experience awaits. As you walk atop these ancient fortifications, you can take in the serene vistas of the Adriatic Sea, with its shimmering waters extending to the horizon. Below, the checkerboard pattern of olive groves surrounds the old city, offering a picturesque backdrop that enhances the charm of this historic setting.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Ostuni. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Cinta Muraria di Ostuni (Ostuni City Walls) on Map
Sight Name: Cinta Muraria di Ostuni (Ostuni City Walls)
Sight Location: Ostuni, Italy (See walking tours in Ostuni)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Ostuni, Italy (See walking tours in Ostuni)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Ostuni, Italy
Create Your Own Walk in Ostuni
Creating your own self-guided walk in Ostuni is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Ostuni Introduction Walking Tour
Perched atop a protective hill on the coast of Apulia, Italy, the picturesque town of Ostuni is a veritable maze, with a tapestry of houses upon houses, weaving together centuries of history that no map can adequately convey. In this intricate network of winding alleys, staircases, and arches, history and charm intertwine seamlessly.
The town's name, Ostuni, holds a mystique, with... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles
The town's name, Ostuni, holds a mystique, with... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.7 Km or 0.4 Miles