Illuminandia in Monopoli, the dream becomes reality. From 5 December, the city lights up with Illuminandia, Italy's first large Christmas park created entirely with artistic lighting from Puglia.
For the first time, a 15,000 square metre light trail will enliven the historic centre and the seafront, transforming them into a wonderful spectacle of art, emotion and enchantment:
🎄 an impressive 22-metre-high Christmas tree,
✨ the Park of the Swings of the Stars with 12 giant swings dedicated to the signs of the zodiac,
❄️ the spectacular 15-metre-high Snow Dome,
🌟 the evocative Illuminated Nativity Scene,
🎅 The Christmas Music Box, home to Father Christmas and an ideal spot for selfies.
This unique project, designed by Faniuolo Illuminazioni, takes the centuries-old tradition of Apulian illuminations to a new dimension, offering an immersive experience that blends art, technology and symbolism.
In Monopoli, light is not just decoration, but identity and vision..
🗓️ The official inauguration will take place on 5 December with a spectacular show featuring international artists, the Christmas train, the Elves of the Village, the lighting of the tree and a grand concert with SoulKeys and Big Boy (Sergio Sylvestre).
In addition, there are many other surprises in store to make the evening unforgettable.
What are Apulian artistic illuminations?
Apulian artistic illuminations are an ancient and refined tradition of light art typical of the Apulia region, particularly rooted in Salento. They are true works of art created by local master craftsmen, called “paratori”, who make decorative structures of great visual impact, often in wood, wrought iron, paper and glass, illuminated by many coloured lights.
These illuminations are used mainly during patron saint festivals and religious celebrations, transforming streets and squares into bright and evocative scenes. The compositions range from geometric and floral motifs to symbolic elements with profound meanings, embodying the cultural, historical and spiritual identity of local communities.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, the illuminations are a living part of Apulian culture, combining religious devotion, exquisite craftsmanship and refined artistic design, making each festival a unique and enchanting event. This expressive heritage is appreciated not only for its beauty, but also as a symbol of Apulia's ingenuity and tradition.
History and origins of Apulian illuminations
Apulian illuminations have their historical roots in the 16th century and represent an authentic cultural and artistic tradition of Apulia. Originally created as simple oil lamps or small lamps shielded by coloured paper, they were used in religious celebrations and village festivals to spread light and suggest a sense of welcome and joy.
During the Baroque period, this practice evolved considerably, drawing inspiration from the great artistic masters of the time such as Michelangelo, Bernini, Fontana and Pietro da Cortona, who had created complex decorative designs for public events. The illuminations became more elaborate structures, often made of wood and metal with extremely refined architectural forms and ornamental motifs, reflecting the Baroque style.
The first evidence of this tradition in Puglia dates back to 1600, with the creation of wooden arches and poles erected in town squares, adorned with small oil lamps, symbols of devotion and celebration. Over time, this tradition has been enriched and transformed into light and art shows, while maintaining its connection with religion and community, especially during patron saint festivities. With the advent of electricity, the illuminations have evolved further, becoming complex and luminous art installations, famous throughout the world for their beauty and symbolic value.
In summary, Apulian illuminations represent a combination of faith, art and craftsmanship that tells the story and cultural identity of the region.
Faniuolo Lighting
is a historic Apulian company specialising in the creation of artistic lighting, founded in 1860 by Giovanni Faniuolo in Putignano, in the province of Bari. From the outset, the company has distinguished itself for the creation of wooden lighting structures decorated with lights and colours, inspired by the style of the majestic portals of Apulian churches.
Over the years, Faniuolo Illuminazioni has continuously innovated, moving from the first multicoloured lights to acetylene gas lights, and then to complete electrification, which began in 1927. The company has created highly successful and visually striking installations, such as the first electric gallery in Bari for the celebrations of St. Nicholas. In the 1950s, with the legacy of his sons Rocco and Francesco, the company expanded its production to include artistic carvings on sheet metal and wood, establishing itself internationally.
Today, Faniuolo Illuminazioni is recognised as a benchmark in the art of Apulian lighting, an expression of a centuries-old cultural heritage that combines tradition, craftsmanship and technological innovation. The company continues to spread the tradition of lighting in the region and beyond, contributing with its unique style to illuminate events such as Illuminandia in Monopoli.