MASSERIA TAGLIENTE IS LOCATED ON THE MURGIA PLATEAU AND WAS BUILT IN 1849 ON A MUCH OLDER SETTLEMENT, LIKE THE ‘TRULLI’ HUTS, PROBABLY DATING BACK TO THE 18TH CENTURY AND BUILT ENTIRELY OUT OF DRY STONE

MASSERIA TAGLIENTE ON THE MURGIA PLATEAU

Masseria Tagliente is located on the Murgia plateau at an altitude of approximately 420 metres above sea level, covering an area of about 180 hectares, which primarily consists of oak woodland and Mediterranean scrub. It represents a rare historical testimony, as it has uninterruptedly maintained its original purpose over the long periods of its existence as both a holiday resort for its owner and an agricultural and livestock farm. It is an authentic ‘masseria’, signifying a farmhouse estate where horses, cows, goats, sheep and poultry are raised in the Murgia area.

The main house, with its adjoining chapel, was built in 1849 on a much older settlement, like the ‘trulli’ huts, probably dating back to the 18th century and built entirely out of dry stone. The owner's original furnishings are still preserved in the master apartment and the chapel. A wonderful panoramic view stretching as far as the Gulf of Taranto and the Pollino Mountains in Calabria can be seen when looking out of the windows.

There are numerous ‘trulli’ around the house that have retained their original ancient use as dwellings or shelters for animals and barns. The area that extends into the woods, has been masterfully divided by dry-stone walls, thereby delimiting the garden with its ornamental plants, the terraced orchard with its ancient trees and the vast pastures. There are walking paths in the wood, leading to the ‘Grotta delle Cento Camere’ (Cave of a Hundred Rooms), a belvedere and historic Gravina.

The date of the construction of the first settlement is unknown, but it is believed that the original nucleus dates back to at least the 18th century. The main house was built on a pre-existing structure in 1849, and the date recalling this can be seen in the tympanum of the central window.

AN AUTHENTIC MASSERIA FARMHOUSE IN THE MURGIA AREA

The Masseria has always been dedicated to livestock farming. Formerly home to Podolica cows, it is  now the fertile breeding ground for brown cows, Murgesi horses (the only indigenous Italian breed), goats and sheep that graze in the oak forest surrounding the estate spanning a distance of more than 180 hectares.

The house, furnished with period furniture and furnishings, has always been used as a summer residence. If proof were needed, there is not even a fireplace in the master apartment!

Over the course of time, the Masseria has hosted not only the ancestors of the current owners during their summer holidays, but also numerous figures who have left their mark on the country's history.

There are a number of ‘trulli’ huts surrounding the Masseria, which are still used as stables or haylofts. A few of them feature ancient tools demonstrating the rustic farming traditions.

FACILITIES AND SERVICES: ACCOMMODATION AND PRIVATE EVENTS IN AN AUTHENTIC MASSERIA FARMHOUSE IN PUGLIA

The Masseria provides bed and breakfast accommodation between May and October every year. It is available as a location for hosting various private events, organising wine tastings, aperitifs and lunches for groups, as well as guided tours.