Novello sotto il Castello

An autumn toast beneath the Aragonese Castle

Novello sotto il Castello is the premier festival celebrating Apulian new wine, transforming the historic center of Conversano, in the heart of the Bari province, into an experiential journey through food, wine, art, music, and tradition every November. Launched in 2009, the event unfolds around the spectacular Aragonese Castle and the squares of the old town, where the aromas of new wine, roasted chestnuts, and seasonal Apulian specialties mingle.

Wine, flavor, and local products

The common thread is new wine, the star of tastings curated in collaboration with regional wineries and producers. The streets of the center host stalls featuring local products, traditional Apulian cuisine, food trucks, and gastronomic stands, while artisan markets enliven Corso Umberto I and Villa Garibaldi. Each year, the event brings together dozens of participants, including wineries, agri-food companies, chefs, and artisans, offering an authentic portrait of the region's flavors.

Art, culture, and special openings

Novello sotto il Castello is more than just a food and wine festival: it is an opportunity to rediscover the artistic and monumental heritage of Conversano. During the event, exhibitions, installations, and widespread art trails take place, alongside special openings of city churches, cloisters, and museums, such as the San Benedetto monastery, the church of Santa Chiara, and the MUSeCO civic museum, often featuring guided tours and workshops dedicated to families and children.

Music and evenings on the village stages

As evening falls, the village lights up with music: Piazza Castello, the Belvedere Amphitheater, and Piazza XX Settembre host live concerts, DJ sets, and performances ranging from folk to electronic music, featuring both Italian and international artists. The combination of wine, lights, art, and music makes Novello sotto il Castello one of the most popular autumn events in Puglia, drawing thousands of visitors to Conversano.

An identity-defining event for Conversano and Puglia

Organized by the volunteer association La Compagnia del Trullo ODV, the event has become a hallmark for the Municipality of Conversano and the entire Puglia region, successfully blending tourism promotion, the enhancement of the historic center, and culinary excellence into one grand November weekend.