Martina Franca

Martina Franca sits at an altitude of 431 meters, making it one of the highest and coolest towns in the Itria Valley. Founded in the 14th century by Philip of Anjou, it was granted 'tax-free' (franca) status to encourage settlement. The town is famous for its distinctive local Baroque style, known as 'Barocco Martinese', which adorns the facades of its white-walled mansions and palaces. Visitors typically enter through the grand Porta Santo Stefano into a labyrinth of elegant streets leading to the Piazza Plebiscito. The town's architectural jewel is the Basilica di San Martino, featuring an intricately carved 18th-century facade. Adjacent to it lies the Palazzo Ducale, the former residence of the Caracciolo dukes, which now serves as the Town Hall and displays a series of magnificent tempera-painted rooms. Martina Franca is also the home of the prestigious Festival della Valle d'Itria, an international opera festival held every summer. Gastronomy is a major draw, particularly the prized Capocollo di Martina Franca ham, cured with local wine and smoked with Macedonian oak. The town is well-connected by road and the Ferrovie del Sud Est rail, offering a more lively, urban experience compared to the smaller surrounding villages.

Nearby cities

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History & landmarks

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