Bari area: Alberobello or Matera

TC, I've also been to both, and that's a difficult choice. Are you "leaning towards" one or the other??? I found that touring the Trulli houses in Alberobello provided an interesting glimpse of life in that time. There are some nice shops where one can enjoy some wine with "slow food" samplers. A tour of Matera also provides an interesting view of how the residents lived in cave homes, along with their livestock. I'd highly recommend taking a tour with a local Guide. One point to note is that the area consists of the "new" town of Matera as well as the "old" area of the Sassi (which has somewhat of a "biblical" appearance). Good luck with your decision!

No contest AFAIAK - Matera is the most amazing place I've ever seen in Europe and the history is fascinating albeit tragic. OTOH, Alberobello seemed to be gussied -up and rebuilt for the tourist trade and has a slightly theme-park atmosphere to it. Of course, Matera is taking full advantage of its uniqueness, but there's enough of the original structure of the cliffside city to present a haunting
reminder of the past.

I've been to both places and I would choose Matera. I found Matera to be just fascinating. There is an entire town carved out of the rock where people lived up until the 50s.

I'll cast my vote too. Matera is one of my very favorite places in Italy. Not to be missed. I stayed in the Sassi Hotel, the rooms were caves carved into
the white Sassi stone - amazing.

Frances, I also stayed at Hotel Sassi and found that to be a unique and enjoyable travel experience!

Many thanks to all for the good info. Think we will do Matera this time and hopefully get back to do Alberobello on another trip. TC

Don't forget the churches of Matera! Carved into the rocks, tons of history and art.