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Antico Forno Santa Chiara

Destinations

Home of the world’s most storied bread

Step inside this 15th-century bakery and watch masters create the legendary DOP Altamura bread.

Inside the Antico Forno Santa Chiara it is possible to witness the making of the most famous bread in the world. The ancient oven of Santa Chiara by Marcella Vito dates back to 1423. It is one of the first public large wood ovens in Altamura, used for cooking DOP bread. Altamura bread is made according to traditional procedures and with selected quality ingredients coming exclusively from the territory.

Insider Insight

While the bread is the main attraction, Forno Antico also serves focaccia Barese topped with tomatoes and olives, another regional specialty that’s a crowd-pleaser. Their taralli (crunchy breadsticks) are perfect for a snack or souvenir.

Early mornings are ideal if you want the freshest bread, but afternoons are great for a quieter visit and a chance to chat with the bakers.

A bite of Altamura’s centuries-old soul.
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