If we think of a white city in Puglia, of course, we think of beautiful Ostuni, but there is another one: Locorotondo.
Locorotondo, one of the Borghi più Belli d’Italia, is located in the heart of Puglia’s Valle d’Itria, at around 410 meters above sea level. Awarded the Orange Flag by the Italian Touring Club for its beauty and quality of life, this village is known for its circular planimetry and the beauty of its architecture.
The name “Locorotondo” comes from the Latin locus rotundus and reflects the town’s unique circular layout. Its earliest documented mention dates back to 1195 in an imperial diploma by Henry VI of Swabia, that acknowledged the existence of a “Locus qui dicitur rotondus” and a church dedicated to Saint George. Over centuries, Locorotondo has seen various rulers, from the Knights Hospitaller in 1314 to noble families like the Del Balzo Orsinis and the Carafas, shaping its historical and cultural landscape.
Architecturally and artistically, the historic center of Locorotondo is the place to be: here, narrow winding streets are framed by the distinctive cummèrse—traditional white houses with sloping roofs made from local limestone known as chiancarelle. These unique buildings are painted with lime to keep the scorching sun at bay and are the symbol of the town.
The main church, dedicated to the patron saint, St. George the Martyr, stands on the ruins of previous churches; today, it has a stunning neoclassical façade built between 1790 and 1825. Its design features a prominent sculptural group in the tympanum, statues of Saints Peter and Paul at the corners, and a striking dome that rises 35 meters high, accompanied by an elegant bell tower. Inside, the church’s Greek cross plan is adorned with artworks by Neapolitan artists, including four significant paintings by Gennaro Maldarelli dating from the early 19th century. The recent floor renovation has introduced glass panels that reveal fragments of the church’s 16th-century façade.
A few steps from the town’s library and tourist information center we find Palazzo Morelli, built in 1819: this exquisite example of Baroque architecture features a grand entrance leading to a charming courtyard, and the hierarchical arrangement of spaces around an external staircase reflects the social stratification of its time, offering a glimpse into the aristocratic life of the 19th century.
As you would expect in a place with such a long history, traditional festivals and cultural celebrations play a vital role and represent well the town’s spirit and cultural heritage. One of the highlights is theFestival of San Giorgio Martire, the patron saint, celebrated on April 23rd. The event is usually preceded by the “donation” ceremony on April 22nd, which shows the deep spiritual and communal bonds within the town. Another key event is the Feast of San Rocco on August 16th, which commemorates the saint credited with protecting Locorotondo from a 17th-century plague. Throughout the year, there are also various seasonal and harvest festivals, including celebrations of the grape and olive harvests.
Last, but certainly least, let’s look into Locorotondo’s culinary heritage! Among the most cherished dishes we find triddo, a homemade pasta traditionally prepared during festive periods. Made from semolina, eggs, and cheese, it’s served in a warm, hearty broth. Another local favorite is gnumerèdde suffuchète, lamb tripe rolls slowly cooked in a savory broth. This dish, recognized as a traditional product, has ancient roots and is connected with the rural nature the community maintained throughout the centuries. Of course, being in Puglia, we must mention orecchiette con le cime di rapa, a regional staple combining handmade pasta with turnip tops in a simple yet flavorful preparation.
The local Locorotondo white has a DOC designation, which it received in 1969, making it one of the “oldest” DOC wines in the country.
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