What is a "Trullo"?

"Trulli" (the plural of "trullo") are circular limestone buildings with conical roofs, each slightly different in size and shape. Traditionally the walls are built 'a seco' (without mortar) and are up to 2m thick, keeping the interior cool during the hot summers and warm in winter. The conical roof, which rests on the walls, is made up of three layers: square limestone blocks, irregular stones and a covering of Chiancarelle. The "trullo" is often finished by an ornamental pinnacle on top which has a symbolic or religious meaning. Painted onto the roof there are often mystical symbols which are different on each trullo.

Originally, the "trullo" was used for grain and wine storage as well as being homes for farm workers. Most "trullo" are built on one floor only with a main room and smaller rooms leading off. In some areas, you sometimes find a "trullo sovrano", built on two storeys. Many of the "trulli" are now restored and transformed into luxurious boutique holiday accommodation.

There are many myths surrounding the reason for the cone shaped roofs on "trulli". One theory is that it was a form of property tax evasion. By pulling on a rope attached to the "trullo", the owner could pull the building down when the tax collector was imminent and reassemble it once he had left!