What fun! Planning another spectacular day with Ylenia and Michele, my wonderful friends (and Friends of Victoria)… So, where shall we go?

It’s not a hard decision, Martina Franca and Locorotondo are at the top of my list! Martina Franca is one of my favorite cities here and Locorotondo is reputed to have one of the most spectacular Christmas light/decoration displays in the entire region! We are in agreement and off we go to the the Itria Valley of Puglia…

♥ Always Appealing Martina Franca
Even the approach to Martina Franca is delightful. I never tire of it! We’re close to Alberobello so there are the distinctive trulli, dry stone walls, terraced gardens and vineyards. When we arrive, since it’s midday, it’s very quiet.

Most shops and restaurants are closed and we find that we pretty much have this picturesque town to ourselves.

Entering through the lovely main portal into the historic center, we are greeted by the namesake of Martina Franca, San Martino (St. Martin) himself.

Continuing through the Piazza XX Settembre, passageways lead us past attractive shops until we eventually arrive at Piazza Plebiscito where the Basilica di San Martino is located. (Needless to say, we pause often to take photos along the way.)

Visiting the Basilica, with its resplendent Baroque facade and rich interior, we enjoy the peaceful ambiance…

Actually it’s peaceful everywhere as we weave and wind our way through the narrow lanes enjoying the festive ambiance…

Fortunately for us, there is one wonderful trattoria open! After a delicious lunch, we’re off to nearby Locorotondo…

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♥ Dazzling Locorotondo!
Locorotondo’s name is of medieval origin (locus = place + rotundas = round) and literally describes this charming hilltop village located in the Valle d’Itria (Itria Valley) between Martina Franca and Alberobello.

Locorotondo is characterized by its circular footprint and its white washed walls and buildings typical of towns here. Although I have visited many times in the past, it was never during the holidays. And, apparently, this already charming town really goes “all out” for the holidays…

Well, I will let the photos speak for themselves!! And, yes, we are bundled up because it was very brisk and chilly but this charming town definitely twinkled, sparkled and delighted us with its dazzling display of holiday spirit that attracts visitors from miles around.

⇓ CLICK & Enjoy the Video of Locorotondo! ⇓

VIDEO: Locorotondo Sparkles & Glitters!

Needless to say this wonderfully glittering, shining, stroll cheers everyone! Especially when followed by a warm libation and all the more special and memorable to share with friends!

♥ And now we share our memories with you and…we wish YOU a beautiful holiday season! ♥

♥ Buone Feste! Happy Holidays! ♥

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We look forward to welcoming you to Italy in 2022! Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning, Italy is still as fabulous and magical as ever!

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