Puglia has inspired artists like Massimo Vitali, known for his beach scenes from Polignano a Mare to Torre Pali. If you're planning a trip to Puglia this summer, consider visiting the following art and culture spots across the region, including some hidden gems and lesser-known sites:

For those in a rush, check out our not-to-miss highlights:

• Contemporary: Palazzo Luce, the 14th-century baroque Palazzo, holds the fantastic contemporary collection of Anna Maria Enselmi.
• Modern art: 'Andy Warhol. Life, Pop, Rock' (Casa Alberobello Largo Martellotta until 20 October) presents the artist’s legacy on contemporary art.
• Beautiful baroque: In the city of Lecce check out the Church of Santa Chiara, an authentic treasure of Lecce Baroque style | Palazzo Luce, the 14th baroque century Palazzo, holds the fantastic contemporary collection of Anna Maria Enselmi.
  

Take a day trip to this small town in the Itria Valley, where you can marvel at the distinctive cone-roofed stone buildings known as 'trulli.' These UNESCO-listed structures date back to the 14th century and offer a unique glimpse into the area's architectural history. Whilst in the area, enjoy the exhibition 'Andy Warhol. Life, Pop & Rock' through 20 October. This blockbuster exhibition features 150 works by the father of Pop Art which include some of the most famous serigraphs, together with photos, videos, posters, magazines, ceramics and a series of vinyl covers, coming from private collections!

Elsewhere in Puglia, you must pay a visit to Dep Art Out, located in the rural area of Ceglie Messapica. Originally a gallery based in Milan, Dep Art Out has transformed some of these buildings into an alternative art space that is used during the summer for projects. From 12 July enjoy the solo exhibition by the German artist Gerold Miller who is famed for his radical use of monochrome and geometric abstraction. Set against the unconventional backdrop of the trulli gallery, we imagine the experience will be unforgettable!

Situated in Lecce's historic old town, overlooking the Roman Theatre, Palazzo Luce is esteemed collector Anna Maria Enselmi's visionary creation. Born from her passion for contemporary art and design, the 14th-century palazzo houses a remarkable collection of unique, historic, and modern pieces. Highlights of this fantastic collection include: a hypnotic work by Marina Abramović, authentic majolica floors, and Joseph Kosuth’s striking neon installation on the breathtaking terrace, overlooking the enchanting ambiance of Lecce and offering views of the cathedral bell tower.

Under a five-minute walk away, you will find the Church of Santa Chiara, rebuilt by Giuseppe Cino between 1687 and 1691. It showcases Lecce Baroque with its innovative convex facade and elegant, richly decorated exterior. Inside, the single chamber with an octagonal floor plan features chapels in local Baroque style, a monumental main altar with twisted columns, and gratings for the nuns, while the 1738 drop ceiling, made of papier mâché, mimics expensive wood.

For a hidden gem, explore the lesser-known Church of Saints Niccolò and Cataldo which is tucked away from the bustle of central Lecce and a short walk away from the historic old town. The church is a beautiful example of both romanesque and baroque architecture and within its walls holds the renaissance work ‘Madonna del Buon Consiglio’ which was donated by Cosimo II de’Medici in the 17th century. The attention to detail and use of shading will leave you speechless!