Puglia: Martina Franca

Hotels Restaurants Sights Shopping

Martina Franca is known as the Baroque White City. To me, it’s like a wedding cake — set on a hill, ornate, white, filled with twisting streets — very pretty — picturesque. The town overlooks the Valley of Itria, and as you look out over the countryside you’ll see the typical cone houses - Trulli. Martina Franca dates back to the 10^th century. The Ducal Palace/Palazzo Ducale is located on the Piazza Roma. It is a 17^th century building that is used now as city offices. The palazzo was built upon the ruins of the Orsini Castle. You can go inside and see the frescoes on the third floor (painted by Domenico Carella). From the outside you’ll find the wrought iron balconies, the windows and decorations very beautiful. The Collegiata San Martino was built in the 17^th century. It was built on top of the Capella di San Martino (11^th century). The façade has four statues of Sts. Peter, Paul, Giuseppe and Giovanni Battista. It is a Baroque building inside and out. Do go in — it’s beautiful. In the Great Chapel you’ll find frescoes (The Last Supper) by Domenico Carella. The Arc of St. Stefano was built in honor of St. Martin (and his miracle). It’s a beautiful arch with an equestrian statue of St. Martin. The style here is also Baroque. Wednesday is market day in Martina Franca.