Puglia, a land of astonishing charm, where history, culture, and food blend seamlessly. Olive groves. Ancient recipes. Folk dances. Religious processions. Atmospheres filled with memories and emotions that seem untouched by time. Centuries-old traditions, cherished by the Apulian people is as strong as their desire to share them with the world.
Inspired by these timeless treasures, choreographer Giuliano Peparini crafted a series of extraordinary performances to accompany the events of Alta Moda, Alta Sartoria, and Alta Gioielleria collections. Here they are.
La Cavalcata di Sant’Oronzo
During the celebration of Sant’Oronzo, on August 25th, 26th, and 27th, a procession of horsemen parade through the streets of the historic centre of Ostuni, wearing traditional costumes.
The origin of this parade dates back to 1657 when the city miraculously escaped a devastating plague that swept through Salento. Regarded as a miracle performed by the saint, the people of Ostuni have since commemorated this event annually.
On August 26th, they come together in a solemn procession to the sanctuary, the main church in Piazza Cattedrale, to reverently retrieve the silver statue of their patron saint and carry it on their shoulders all the way to Piazza della Libertà.
The dressing of the horses for the equestrian procession involves the active participation of the entire family within the city’s community. The horses wear elegant, hand-embroidered red cloaks adorned with sparkling sequins, along with exquisite harnesses.
Each horseman’s uniform consists of a chepì (a type of cap) and a jacket, adorned with the same motifs that embellish the horse’s cloak, as well as white trousers and gloves.
Throughout the festivity, white and red are the dominant colours, igniting the atmosphere and passing down a centuries-old tradition infused with profound spiritual significance.
La Taranta
Puglia’s traditional dance, the Taranta, is an enchanting fusion of music and folklore, deeply ingrained in the soul of the Salento region. Originally regarded as an “exorcism,” this dance served as a cathartic ritual for those bitten by a tarantula, seeking to rid themselves of its venom through rhythmic movements. It was primarily women working in the fields who were affected. To heal, they would dance, waving a brightly coloured handkerchief in blue, red, or green – the very hues reflecting the tarantula’s vivid colours.
Alberobello’s timeless and ancient trades
Amidst the narrow streets of Alberobello, you can wander through the enticing scents and flavours of numerous specialty food and wine shops, and explore the local craft workshops that have been passing down ancient trades for generations. You can savour culinary delights such as handmade fresh orecchiette pasta, cheeses from local farms, bread baked in wood-fired ovens, sun-dried tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil produced by local families.
Furthermore, you have the opportunity to admire the genuine Apulian craftsmanship, which is still meticulously handcrafted in accordance with deeply-rooted regional traditions. Such as the artistry behind wooden whistles, ceramics, textiles woven on ancient looms, and the captivating “petine” – enchanting and mysterious embroidered bags that hold various auspicious objects.
Each meticulously crafted product along the Via dei Mestieri is a testament to tradition, the skilled hands of master artisans from the Valle d’Itria, and an unwavering passion for their craft.
Le Orecchiette
Orecchiette, the symbol of Puglia and its culinary heritage, are a time-honored dish revered around the globe.
This traditional delicacy is lovingly crafted by hand, using only the finest and authentic ingredients from the region.
The hallmark dough, made from re-milled durum wheat semolina, water, and salt, beautifully harmonizes with the exquisite condiment of sautéed turnip greens and anchovies, a true embodiment of Puglia’s rich flavours and traditions.
The majestic elegance of ancient olive trees
The majestic grace of ancient olive trees, the towering millennial ‘giants,’ presents a breathtaking and unique view of the Apulian landscape. As their silhouettes and dry stone walls stretch endlessly, they weave an enchanting tapestry under the golden hues of Pettolecchia La Fortezza’s sunset.
Amidst the picturesque setting, the twisted and curved trunks, adorned with rich green foliage, create awe-inspiring scenes against the intense blue sky. Yet, beyond their visual splendour, these ancient trees bear a precious fruit – olives, the foundation of Puglia’s true liquid gold: extra virgin olive oil. Proudly bearing four DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) certifications – Terra d’Otranto, Dauno, Collina di Brindisi, and Terra di Bari – Puglia reigns as the ultimate producer of this liquid treasure, a key ingredient in many traditional Mediterranean recipes.
Experience the essence of
Dolce&GabbanaAlta Moda in Puglia
