Locorotondo is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy: a perfectly circular historic centre, the characteristic cummerse (the steep dry-stone roofs), olive groves and a breathtaking view over the Itria Valley. If you are planning a visit, here are the 10 attractions and experiences not to be missed.
1. The Circular Historic Centre
Wander through the alleys of the centre, which develop in concentric circles around the main square. Every corner is a postcard: arches, flower-filled lanes, white houses and the typical pitched roofs called cummerse. Get lost without a plan: it is the best way to discover the village.
2. The Mother Church of St George
The main church of Locorotondo, dedicated to St George, stands in the heart of the historic centre. Its neoclassical facade and Baroque interiors tell centuries of history and local art.
3. The Belvedere over the Itria Valley
Locorotondo sits perched on a hill: from the belvederes of the historic centre (Largo Bellavista, Via Nardelli) and from the Villa Comunale you can enjoy a spectacular view over the Itria Valley, with the trulli, the masserie and the olive groves stretching to the horizon. The sunset from here is unforgettable.
4. Historic Palaces
The historic centre is made entirely of cummerse, houses dating back to the 1600s and 1700s that grow in height, all rigorously whitewashed with lime milk. Palazzo Aprile-Xymenes, with its Pompeian-red facade, is the only exception. Palazzo Morelli is a jewel of Baroque architecture, with its portal and little balconies, adjacent to the Clock Tower, once the Universitas of Locorotondo.
5. The Trulli and Dry-Stone Walls
In the countryside of the whole Itria Valley, among the centuries-old olive trees, rise the trulli, the ancient cone-roofed stone buildings that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the country roads to photograph the trulli and the dry-stone walls that shape the landscape.
6. Wineries and Tastings
The Locorotondo area is land of DOC wines such as Locorotondo bianco (Verdeca, Bianco di Alessano and Minutolo), but also of excellent rose wines (Susumaniello, Primitivo, Negramaro). Visit one of the local wineries for a tasting: paired with local products, it is an experience for true connoisseurs.
7. Masserie and Farm Stays in the Surroundings
Around the village you will find historic masserie converted into farm stays: perfect for a lunch of zero-kilometre products or a dinner under the stars.
8. The Trip to Alberobello
Just 20 minutes by car away is Alberobello, the capital of the trulli and a UNESCO site: an unmissable excursion to see hundreds of trulli concentrated in the historic centre. The best way to visit it is to be accompanied by an experienced local guide. Contact us to book your guided tour!
9. Martina Franca and Cisternino
Complete your tour of the Itria Valley with Martina Franca (20 minutes away), famous for the Ducal Palace and its Baroque centre, and Cisternino, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy and the homeland of the famous bombette.
10. The Sunset Walk and the Aperitif
End the day with an aperitif in the square or in one of the bars of the historic centre, sipping a glass of local wine while the sun sets over the Itria Valley. The magic of Locorotondo lies precisely in its slow rhythms.
Useful Tips
- How long to stay: We recommend at least three days to explore the whole Itria Valley.
- When to go: spring and autumn for the ideal climate; summer for evenings full of events.
- Where to stay: choose a holiday home in Locorotondo to experience the village at a relaxed pace, between a welcoming house and an authentic trullo.
