Horm Stories #12
Have you ever heard of the Trulli? They are an iconic symbol of Apulia, traditional rural constructions—cylindrical stone houses built with limestone—and extraordinary examples of dry stone architecture. This prehistoric technique, still used in the region today, creates structures made from carefully stacked stone slabs. Trulli are found throughout the Valle d’Itria in central-southern Apulia, though the most characteristic examples are in Alberobello, where more than 1,500 trulli are still active and inhabited. These 18th-century constructions are now recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The origin of the trulli is particularly fascinating. Some scholars believe they existed as early as the 14th century, but their greatest expansion occurred in the 15th century, following a decree by the Kingdom of Naples imposing taxes on new settlements. Ingenuity led locals to create structures that could be easily dismantled: when the royal tax collector approached, removing the keystone would transform the house into a pile of stones.
The architecture of the trulli naturally keeps interiors cool in summer and warm in winter, a feature that could today be considered truly eco-friendly. Over time, many trulli have been converted into luxury hotels or five-star B&Bs. A prime example is “Le Ali Bianche” in Ostuni, creatively redesigned with contemporary style. Guests experience a stay rich in history, tradition, and design, thanks to the contribution of numerous Horm furniture pieces, including Comrì and Tide dressers, Twine beds, Albino Family and Hexagon tables, and Twist coat racks.
Once again, Horm furnishings have proven their ability to adapt to their surroundings, integrating seamlessly while adding the extra value our client sought.
Crystal-clear seas, stretches of olive groves, and pure Made in Italy design: this is the Apulia we love.
