Puglia's 940km (584 miles) of coastline, which were once part of the Magna Graecia and harbored ancient Romans' mighty flotillas, outlines what is known as the "boot heel" of Italy.  In the past decade, some areas have made headlines for hosting flashy weddings and being celebrities' summer escapes.

However, much of the region remains a little-known historical, natural, and culinary gem. If you venture to some of its hundreds of towns, you will encounter an authentic southern Italian way of life filled with earthy flavors, sharp colors, and welcoming smiles.