Selva di Fasano

Selva di Fasano is called "the Italian balcony on the Orient" and the name seems appropriate. First, there's its position on a hill that makes it the highest point in the province of Brindisi and affords prominent panoramas toward the sea. Then there's villa and minaret constructed by a local artist/nobleman in Middle Eastern style, further reinforcing the town's Orient connection.

Selva means "woods," and it's not hard to see why the town was so-named. It is surrounded by forests of oaks, pine, chestnut and cypress. Selva di Fasano is known for its pristine natural setting and its beautiful views. It is not only surrounded by nature, there is a botanic garden, the Parco Botanico di San Donato, in town that is planted with indigenous Mediterranean fauna, and Zoo Safari Fasanolandia, Europe's largest wild animal park, just outside town. The drive-through zoo has wild and exotic animals in their habitat instead of in cages.

The town itself has tree-lined avenues and pleasant atmosphere. Here in the Valle d'Itria is where you find the peculiar local architectural style known as trulli, pointy-roofed rustic dwellings. You'll find in town and sprinkled abundantly about the countryside. In fact, Selva's main church is built in trullo style and is called the Trullo del Signore (the trullo of the Lord). Outside town beyond the woods are agricultural fields, divided by dry-stone walls. Olive groves are a reminder of the area's primary crop.

The Casina Municipale is a cultural park that hosts events and exhibitions, including big-name music concerts in the summer. The park even has a pizzeria, pub and coffee bar for open-air dining while enjoying the town-sponsored activities. The Middle Eastern-style villa and minaret, with its geometric decorations and terraces, is owned by the province and used for exhibits, receptions and small conventions.

Selva di Fasano is surrounded by woods but is just minutes to the main sights of the area. The hot springs of Torre Canne are close by, the sea is just a few minutes downhill, and the fascinating towns of Ostuni, Locorotondo, Cisternino, and Martina Franca are nearby, too. The cities of Bari and Brindisi are only about 40 minutes away. Selva offers several restaurants, cafes, and stores for basic services.