U Puén Nest – Altamura PDO Bread Festival

U Puén Nest, bread becomes a celebration

U Puén Nest – Altamura PDO Bread Festival is the annual event that, every May, transforms the historic center of Altamura, in the province of Bari, into a vibrant community space dedicated to the city's most iconic product: Altamura PDO Bread. The name, in the local Altamuran dialect, translates to "our bread," the very staple that has accompanied the daily life and traditions of the Murgia region for centuries.

An event spread across squares and 'claustri'

The festival unfolds throughout the squares, 'claustri', and streets of the historic center, bringing the city's ancient landmarks back to the heart of the action. For two days, the urban landscape comes alive with stalls, workshops, installations, and shows, inviting citizens and visitors alike to rediscover the deep connection between bread, the Murgia landscape, and the history of Altamura.

Program and activities

The U Puén Nest program weaves together culture, gastronomy, and public participation. Highlights include:

• Master baker demonstrations, featuring live dough preparation and baking in traditional ovens;
• Tastings of bread and local specialties;
• Educational workshops for children and families, including the "Children's Bread" initiative involving local schools;
• Exhibitions and urban installations set up in historic spaces;
• Street performances, artistic shows, and evening concerts that keep the atmosphere lively until late.

Identity and community

The event is promoted by the Municipality of Altamura through the Department of Commerce and Productive Activities, in collaboration with the Consortium for the Protection and Valorization of Altamura PDO Bread, the Bakers' Association, and numerous local entities. The event was born from a project titled "Identity and Community," which aims to tell the story of bread as a shared symbol capable of uniting different people, generations, and histories.

The connection to the Feast of Saint Irene

U Puén Nest takes place in the days leading up to the Patronal Feast of Saint Irene, the patron saint of Altamura, creating a bridge between religious devotion and the promotion of the city's gastronomic and artisanal roots. In this way, the bread festival naturally integrates into the most cherished calendar of the Altamuran community, blending faith, tradition, and a sense of belonging.

Why attend

Visiting Altamura during U Puén Nest means experiencing the most authentic side of Puglia: the world of ancient ovens, protected designation products, and a community that takes pride in its bread. It is the perfect opportunity to explore the historic center, taste the famous PDO Bread, and soak up the festive atmosphere of a city celebrating its origins.