Ceglie Messapica – 20 Minutes from Villa Gufo
Ceglie Messapica is known as the most gastronomic town in the region. Not only is it home to the renowned Med Cooking School, where Italian chefs from all over the country come to take courses, but it also boasts many excellent restaurants.
The houses here are just as white and photogenic as those in Ostuni, but the atmosphere is much quieter and more authentic. You can wander around undisturbed and enjoy a caffè among the locals.
According to legend, Ceglie Messapica was founded by the Pelasgians, an ancient people believed to have built megalithic structures known as specchie. During the Greek colonization around 700 BC, the city was known as Kailìa. It served as an important military capital of the Messapians and had an estimated population of 40,000. Remnants of this ancient civilization, including city walls and fortifications, are still visible in the surrounding area.
Get Lost in the Charming Streets
Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic center and discover charming squares, hidden alleyways, and picturesque corners. Here, you’ll find traditional houses, blooming flower pots, and cozy cafés where you can enjoy the local cuisine and the warm hospitality of the residents.
Piazza Plebiscito & Charming Shops
Ceglie Messapica is all about charm—enjoy a drink in the sun on Piazza Plebiscito and wander through the many small alleyways. Life moves at a slower pace here, allowing you to soak in the tranquility and authenticity of the town. Just around the corner from the piazza, you’ll find a lovely shopping street, Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi.
During summer, the piazza often hosts events and live performances. On Sunday mornings, you might come across an antique market in Ceglie. To find it, stroll down Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi towards the smaller Piazza Sant’Antonio, where the market takes place.
Click HERE for the location of Piazza Plebiscito
Click HERE for the location of Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi
Click HERE for the location of Piazza Sant’Antonio
Antique Markets:
Organizer Arca Promoter – find the schedule on Instagram or Facebook.
Organizer Associazione Zacaredde – find the schedule on Facebook.
Dining in Ceglie Messapica:
Cibus
Hidden in the maze-like streets of Ceglie Messapica, Cibus is set in a former 15th-century monastery. The restaurant has been awarded the “quality cuisine” label by the renowned Michelin Guide.
- Traditional Puglian dishes with a creative twist.
- Beautiful courtyard – perfect for warm days (tip: request a table outside when reserving!).
- A dining experience full of character.
Address: Via Chianche di Scarano, 7, 72013 Ceglie Messapica
Tel: (+39) 0831 388 980
Reservations online: https://www.ristorantecibus.it/reserveatable.php
Website
Il Fico
Il Fico is a charming little restaurant located on the central square of Ceglie Messapica. It offers a modern interpretation of Apulian cuisine, serving traditional dishes with a contemporary twist.
- Cozy atmosphere both inside and outside.
- Extremely helpful and friendly staff.
- The antipasti is highly recommended, as well as the pasta dishes.
- Reservations are a must!
Address: Via Dante Alighieri, 3, 72013 Ceglie Messapica
Tel: (+39) 333 176 55 68
Instagram Il Fico
Bracceria Dei Santi
The specialty of Dei Santi is grilled meat. The steaks here are amazing! However, there are also other dishes on the menu for non-meat eaters. The restaurant has two sections: on the left, you sit in what was once a small chapel, while the larger section on the right offers a warm and authentic homely atmosphere.
- Meat dishes, but also other options available.
- They have a great wine list.
- In summer, you can sit outside in the charming little alleyways.
- Reservations are a must!
Address: Via Porticella, 72013 Ceglie Messapica
Tel: (+39) 0831 382 099
Vino Fritti e Cucina
On the charming little square, you’ll find the colorful Vino Fritti e Cucina—a true hotspot in summer! Their specialty is the aperitivo, featuring a variety of small hot and cold dishes. They are open all year round, and the indoor seating is just as cozy.
- Authentic Apulian cuisine, aperitivo, or à la carte dining.
- A vibrant atmosphere with colorful chairs and tableware.
- Reservations are a must!
Address: Via Osanna, 53, 72013 Ceglie Messapica
Tel: (+39) 334 576 54 63
Instagram
Where to park?
The best place to park is at the address below. There is a public (paid) parking area next to the Town Hall and Police Station, as well as additional parking spots in the surrounding streets. This location is highly recommended if you want to visit the historic center of the city.
- Address: Via Enrico de Nicola, 2, 72012 Ceglie Messapica
- Click HERE for directions
To walk to the historic center, head back to Via Enrico de Nicola and walk towards the old city gate (see photo below). Once you enter the narrow alleyways, it’s best to use Google Maps or Waze, as the area is full of small maze-like streets.
