Casamassima ("The Blue City")💙
About Casamassima:
Casamassima is a picturesque town with a population of approximately 19,786 inhabitants, located in the Metropolitan City of Bari, Apulia, southern Italy. Known for its rich agricultural roots—especially wine, olive, and almond production—it sits inland from the Adriatic coast, just southeast of Bari. Casamassima is famously called "The Blue Town" (Il Paese Azzurro) due to the unique blue-washed buildings in its historic center, offering a striking contrast to the traditional whitewashed towns of Apulia.
History
Founded around the 7th and 8th centuries, Casamassima is believed to have started as a Roman encampment, linked to the Roman family Massimi. Throughout the Middle Ages, the town developed around a Norman tower, which later became a castle. Casamassima was subject to multiple feudal lordships from nearby towns like Acquaviva delle Fonti and Conversano, enduring numerous attacks, including a significant one by Louis I of Hungary in 1347. Afterward, the town fell under the control of the Kingdom of Naples.
During the plague epidemic of 1658, the Duke of Casamassima, Odoardo Vaaz, ordered the painting of buildings with quicklime mixed with copper sulfate, which gave the town its distinctive blue color. Legend has it that this was done to fulfill a vow to the Madonna for protecting the town from the plague, which is why Casamassima earned the nickname "The Blue Town."
Why Is Casamassima Blue?
Casamassima’s blue walls are said to have originated during the 17th-century plague epidemic when Duke Vaaz vowed to paint the town blue in honor of the Madonna of Constantinople if the town was spared. The blue color symbolized the Madonna’s protective cloak and has remained a unique feature of the town since. This historic tradition set Casamassima apart from other Apulian towns, which are typically known for their whitewashed buildings.
In the 1960s, the town’s distinct blue appearance caught the attention of the Milanese painter Vittorio Viviani, who named Casamassima "Il Paese Azzurro," a title that continues to attract visitors from around the world.
How to Get to Casamassima?
Casamassima is easily accessible from Bari, the regional capital, and surrounding towns.
🚙By Car:
It’s a 30-minute drive from Bari along the SS100 highway.
🚄By Train:
Take the train from Bari Centrale to Casamassima Station, which operates frequently (easiest and the ticket is cca 1.50 euro)
🚍By Bus:
Buses from Bari to Casamassima are also available, with regular service.
What to See in Casamassima?
1. The Blue Historic Center
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the historic center, where blue-washed houses give the town its magical atmosphere. The most photographed streets include Via Paliodoro and Chiasso Bongustai, which are charming with flowers, murals, and traditional artifacts displayed by local residents.
2. Monastery of Santa Chiara
Founded in 1573, this former orphanage and later monastery is an imposing structure in the town’s center. It's an architectural gem with a beautiful cloister and a viewpoint that offers panoramic views.
3. Saint Croce of Matrice Church
This Romanesque church, built in the 12th–13th centuries, is one of the town's most important religious buildings. Its bell tower is a stunning example of medieval architecture, and inside, you’ll find a mix of Baroque and medieval art.
4. Arch of Our Lady of Constantinople
This arch features a fresco of the Madonna of Constantinople, who is believed to have protected the town from the plague. The blue color of the Madonna’s cloak inspired the tradition of painting the town blue.
Casamassima is a charming and small town, perfect for a quick visit. The best time to explore is just before sunset when the town's unique blue hues are most striking. Keep in mind that, following the traditional Italian lifestyle, many places close in the afternoon and won't reopen until around 8 p.m., so plan ahead if you're looking to grab dinner. You can easily see everything in about an hour.💙
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