In the heart of the Murgia plateau, Altamura has been inhabited since the dawn of time, as proved by the remains of “Ciccillo”, the famous man from Altamura who lived over 150,000 years ago. It was later re-founded by the Emperor Frederick II of Swabia. He repopulated the town by convincing the inhabitants of the nearby countryside to move within the enormous protohistoric walls, and built the imposing cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its unique two bell towers. A great variety of brilliant and cultured figures were born here, and Altamura hosted one of the oldest universities in all southern Italy since 1748. Following the example of the French Revolution, Altamura proclaimed the Republic by erecting the tree of liberty in the central square in 1799. Later, it was heavily plundered by the Bourbon troops of Cardinal Ruffo. The town was named “Lioness of Apulia” for the courage shown against the Bourbon kingdom. The city offers many historical and cultural insights. Set out on our tour and live the ancient history of the city, going from the Palaeolithic to the classical age. Visit Altamura Diocesan Museum Matroneum, located in the majestic Federician Cathedral. Explore the ancient alleys and cloisters of the medieval village while occasionally smelling the fragrance of Altamura’s bread, famous all over the world.