For several years now, the film industry has been choosing Puglia as a set. The films shot in Puglia are numerous. In recent years, the number of movies produced with the heel of Italy as a natural backdrop has surged. This is because film producers have grasped the potential of this region
The Beauty of Puglia, a Natural Set
In Puglia there is fantastic light, fairy‑tale landscapes, and mild weather all year round. The cities and villages embody a mix of the various cultures of the peoples who, in the past, conquered these territories. Apulian Romanesque, Lecce Baroque, the unique architecture of the trulli in the Itria Valley. The crystal‑clear sea that surrounds it on three sides. These are all elements that have led directors to fall in love with the Apulian territory.
Thanks to the films shot in Puglia, the easternmost region of Italy has gained a significant increase in notoriety. This has boosted the tourism sector, which has seen demand beyond national and European borders. It can be stated without fear of contradiction that the region washed by the Ionian and Adriatic seas represents one of the top choices for the film industry, not only the national one.
Which films were shot in Puglia?
It would be impossible to list the countless films shot in Puglia in a single article. However, we want to mention some movies that symbolize the region’s appeal.
International Productions
“No Time to Die” featured Gravina in Puglia as the setting for one of the most iconic scenes of the latest James Bond film — a movie seen all over the world. The same goes for “Six Underground” by Michael Bay, filmed in Taranto. The star‑studded cast led by Matteo Garrone in “Tale of Tales” performed in the magnificent setting of Castel del Monte. This is only a small part of the international productions that have worked in Puglia.
Italian Films
If we associate the words “film” and “Puglia,” Ferzan Ozpetek immediately comes to mind. The Turkish director, in love with Salento, has set more than one film in this area. We recall the great success of “Loose Cannons” (Mine Vaganti), which helped introduce the wonders of the Salento peninsula to the national audience.
The pearl of the Adriatic, Polignano a Mare, birthplace of Domenico Modugno, has been the set of several films and TV series. Checco Zalone is one of the actors/directors enchanted by the beauty of the village. “Cado dalle nubi” and “Che bella giornata” were two major hits that used the city of the “Volare” singer as their backdrop.
How could we not mention the TV series “Le indagini di Lolita Lobosco”, filmed in Bari and beyond. The policewoman fond of spaghetti all’assassina has been a testimonial of the beauty of the Levantine city.
Sergio Rubini, one of the most appreciated Italian actors and directors, has chosen Puglia as a muse for his films. For the Apulian director, Puglia is not a mere backdrop but a protagonist equal to the actors.
Come Visit the Apulian Sets
We have listed only a small part of the films shot in Puglia. The world of cinema is in love with the heel of Italy, and it is truly fascinating to find places seen on screen and then experience them in real life.
This experience is possible by visiting the entire Apulian territory, and we at Soriano Service Ncc are here for that. Accompanying you around the region, discovering the places walked by movie stars — an experience not to be missed!
Films shot in Puglia, a natural set chosen by many Italian and international directors. The region, with its beauty, lends itself to being the ideal location.