Gioia del Colle
Gioia del Colle: a journey through nature, history and legends
Hello everyone! Today I will talk to you about Gioia del Colle, a town of 26,619 inhabitants in the province of Bari, nestled between the Apulian Murge.
Physical geography
The town is located in a strategic position, halfway between the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea, and dominates the surrounding territory from the top of a hill that rises to 360 meters above sea level. The landscape is characterized by vast forested areas, with vegetation mainly composed of Quercus trojana and Quercus pubescens. The WWF Oasis "Boschi Romanazzi" and Serra Capece make up the most significant part of the forested area of the municipality of Gioia del Colle and represent an important natural resource in the area.
Climate
The Mediterranean climate of Gioia del Colle is characterized by winter temperatures ranging from -2°C to +12°C and hot summers with temperatures ranging from +18°C to +35°C, accompanied by a high percentage of humidity. Annual precipitation levels hover around 600 millimeters, while snow falls about once a year, especially in the presence of cold air of Balkan origin.
History
The historic center of Gioia del Colle tells the thousand-year history of these places; the settlement was born around a castle of Byzantine origins and its name derives from Joha, a reduction of the surname Joannakis, a Byzantine family present in these places during the Middle Ages. However, there are many versions of the origin of the toponym Gioia del Colle, including one that tells of a noblewoman who lost a precious necklace in the area.
The castle, at the center of the homonymous Old Town, witnessed numerous historical events and was expanded by Normans, Swabians, and Angevins. During World War II, the castle of Gioia del Colle was used as a barracks and victualling office, a warehouse for food supplies for Allied troops.
Gastronomy
Get ready for a tasting of authentic and traditional flavors that only Puglia can offer. In Gioia del Colle, the cuisine is linked to peasant tradition and the culture of olive oil production, so much so that it has been awarded the prestigious "City of Oil" recognition.
First courses are made with homemade pasta, such as orecchiette with turnip greens, while second courses are based on local meats, such as lamb on the embers, roasted kid and veal bites with mushrooms and onions.
Among the desserts, do not miss the opportunity to taste the cotognino, made with quince paste and cooked must, or the cartellate, fried dough with honey and almonds.
Events and traditions
The historical roots of Gioia del Colle are tangible in various events throughout the year, such as the Medieval Festival, which takes place in the Old Town at the end of August, with parades in period costumes, historical processions, and sword tournaments. Additionally, at the end of September, the Livestock Fair is held, an event that celebrates the pastoral economy of the area.
Among the most cherished traditions is the Feast of Saint Rocco, the patron saint of the town, celebrated on August 16th, and the Feast of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters, on March 19th.
Conclusion
Gioia del Colle is a small gem in Puglia, where history, culture, and nature meet to form a unique bouquet of colors and scents. Between visits to the castle, nature walks, and tastings of typical dishes, you will never be bored. If you are looking for a destination off the traditional tourist routes, but no less fascinating, Gioia del Colle is definitely a choice that will not disappoint you.
