Outside Ostuni

The Sanctuary of Sant'Oronzo

It was built between 1656 and 1657 with the money of the Ostuni population who wanted to thank the saint who, according to tradition, spared the Salento population from the plague that had started in Naples. The sanctuary is located on a hill called Morrone after an ancient specchia. It occupies the place of a former XVI church, built above a natural cave where the saint is said to have taken refuge to escape the persecution of early Christians.

The Sanctuary of San Biagio

The sanctuary of San Biagio represents one of the most interesting example of monastic edifications along all the south side of the Murge. It is also a major evidence of the influence of the Byzantine culture in Puglia from the IX to the XI century. The origins of the church and of the nearby buildings date back to the XII century.

Events

Feast of San Biagio

On this day of the year thousands of pilgrims go to the sanctuary of San Biagio where they can attend the mass held in the church. The landscape at the Sanctuary is notable for a great pothole considered by speleologists the biggest underground cavity in Puglia. It is a special occasion not only for its religious aspect but also for the opportunity, while walking, of admiring an unspoilt natural area, the monastic buildings and the Mediterranean vegetation.

When: 3rd of February

Feast of the Madonna della Nova

On this day the locals visit the Sanctuary of the Madonna della Nova situated just outside the town, on the road to Carovigno.

When: Sunday after Easter

Sagra degli altri tempi

The historic centre is the scene for a display of old traditions, costumes and food preparation by the people of the old town. You can taste various types of traditional dishes and see the local artisansat work.

When: 15th August

La Cavalcata

La Cavalcata is a horse parade that follows the procession of Saint Oronzo, the protector of the city on the 26th of August. A silver statue of the saint is carried in memory of the knights who protected the pilgrims on the way to the sanctuary from the attacks of bandits. Horses and riders have mantillas and costumes in gold or silver embroidery.

When: 26th August

La processione della Grata

On the second Sunday of August, this procession leaves the Sanctuary della Grata to go to the centre of the city and, in the evening, the candles of the six thousand people who usually take part, light up the countryside. It is a striking scene you can watch from the top of the city.

2nd Sunday of August

Live Nativity scenes

Nativity scenes in the historic centre of the town.

When: 24th December