Masseria Galtieri
One of the oldest and most influential families in Grumo Appula, the Galtieri family left a lasting mark on the social, cultural and political life of the community. The most well-known member of the family was Bernardino, priest and revolutionary. He was born in 1768 and his vibrant personality was animated by a profound passion for justice and education. At a time when access to learning was available only to the privileged, Bernardino took on the role of school teacher to the town’s children, teaching them to read and write and instilling in them the ideals of freedom and dignity. His life’s work was not limited to makeshift classrooms however, the Parthenopean Republic called him to actively participate in 1799 and Bernardino took on the role of commander of the Civic Guard, leading his fellow citizens with courage and determination.
When the revolution failed, the revolutionary priest hid in the country side of Altamura and Acquaviva, persecuted by the law. He was eventually captured and imprisoned but in 1820 he was released and returned to his town as priest and leader of the Vendita dei Carbonari di Grumo, continuing to fight for the ideals of freedom and justice. This building was probably built between the 18th and 19th centuries, its fortified walls a clear symbol of resistance. Sources dating back to the 19th century report that in 1889 the owner was Emilio Galtieri, the heir of the family who once lived in those rooms. The stones now show severe weather damage, but the building remains a symbol of memory and courage. Its walls still tell the story of Bernardino and the Galtieri family, defenders of values and ideals who left an indelible mark on the community of Grumo Appula.