Trullo Ulìa: A 16th-Century Trullo Becomes an Art Space in Ostuni
After three years of restoration, Trullo Ulìa opens in Ostuni, Puglia, transforming a 16th-century Saracen trullo into a space for art, thought, and residencies. Curator Michele Spinelli and architect Simone Esposito led the project, which involved uncovering the original structure hidden by later additions. The official opening on July 18, 2026, features Pacifico Silano's exhibition 'salt skin,' exploring transformation and the South. Prior to opening, artist Davide Sgambaro created a performance with 10,000 fireworks inside the trullo. The space also includes hospitality and plans for symposia and residencies. Future programming includes a residency by Matias Ercole. The project is self-funded and aims to offer a nuanced reading of Puglia's architectural heritage, countering myths about whitewashed masserie.
Key facts
- Trullo Ulìa is a 16th-century Saracen trullo in Ostuni, Puglia.
- The project was led by curator Michele Spinelli and architect Simone Esposito.
- Restoration took three years, including a year of actual work plus planning and permits.
- The official opening is July 18, 2026, with Pacifico Silano's exhibition 'salt skin'.
- Artist Davide Sgambaro performed a fireworks piece inside the trullo in 2025.
- The space will host residencies, symposia, and hospitality.
- Future resident includes Matias Ercole, working on a site-specific piece.
- The project is entirely self-funded, with no public financing.
Entities
Artists
- Pacifico Silano
- Davide Sgambaro
- Matias Ercole
Institutions
- Trullo Ulìa
- Fuoricampo
- Doppelgaenger
- Essenziale Studio
Locations
- Ostuni
- Puglia
- Italy
- Brooklyn
- Padova
- Buenos Aires