Chiesa di Sant'Antonio, Alberobello

Church in Alberobello

Perched atop the Monti district in Alberobello, the Church of Saint Anthony of Padua stands as a unique architectural gem that tells a story of both tradition and progress. This remarkable church is a testament to the town’s rich history and its distinctive trulli architecture.

Built in 1927, the Church of Sant’Antonio is a Greek cross church, a rarity in itself. What truly sets it apart is its construction entirely of trulli, making it a one-of-a-kind religious structure. In the early 20th century, Alberobello was experiencing a shift in its urban fabric, with the northern side of Largo Martellotta embracing a more modern character, while the southern side retained its traditional trulli architecture.

The Monti district had a unique status, having been designated a national monument in 1910. Consequently, building regulations dictated that only trulli-style structures could be constructed within its boundaries. This designation further solidified the district’s identity as a symbol of Alberobello’s traditional heritage and culture.

During the post-war years up until the 1980s, trulli were often associated with poverty and backwardness, leading to the demolition of many trulli outside the designated monumental areas. Modern construction began to replace these historic structures, causing neighborhoods like those around the Church of Santi Medici to disappear from the town’s landscape.

The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua, with its distinctive trulli design, stands as a beacon of Alberobello’s enduring architectural heritage amidst the evolving urban landscape. It represents a harmonious blend of historical tradition and cultural identity, offering a glimpse into the town’s past while continuing to serve its community.

The Chiesa di Sant'Antonio, Alberobello appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Alberobello!

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