Puglia, also known as Apulia, is Italy's boot heel as it lies in the most southeastern part of the country. Reputed as the gateway to and from the East, the region has a royal history of battles and occupation by many foreign rulers. Kind Fredrick II built many castles, which are still standing, in the region. Interestingly, Puglia produces approximately one-tenth of the total wine consumed in Europe. The olive oil produced in this region is renowned as well. The region offers an excellent museum full of archaeological artefacts, many cathedrals some even dating back to the 10th century, small fishing villages and one of the largest forests in Europe!