Locorotondo is a picturesque Apulian village known for its characteristic historical centre made up of cobbled lanes and whitewashed houses, which lend it an ancient and unique charm. Its history is reflected in its architectural and cultural heritage, which includes impressive churches, Baroque palaces and historic towers.
History and Characteristics
Locorotondo takes its name from the ancient shape of its historic centre, from the narrow curved streets that form a “loco rotondo” (round place). It is a village in the Itria Valley, listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” and known for its “cummerse,” typical trullo roofs.
The medieval walls and the old Porta Napoli bear witness to the defensive history of the town.
What to see in Locorotondo
Old town: The heart of the village with white houses and cobbled streets where you can stroll and discover local art and ancient sights.
Mother Church of San Giorgio: Dedicated to the patron saint, with an imposing façade and a 35-metre high dome, an example of the fusion of neoclassical and earlier styles, built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Church of San Nicola and Church of the Madonna della Greca: the latter is the oldest in the village.
Clock Tower: Built in 1819, it now houses the Archaeological Documentation Centre and the Historical Archives.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II: Often referred to as the “drawing room of the town,” an elegant 19th-century square with monuments and panoramic views from the Belvedere di Santa Lucia.
Palazzo Morelli: Example of Baroque architecture.
Porta Napoli: Ancient entrance to the village, with arch and remains of the walls.
Stroll through the Hague district: where there are about 400 trulli, typical white conical buildings, a UNESCO heritage site since 1996.
What to do in Locorotondo
Stroll through the historic centre to soak up the authentic atmosphere and visit the many workshops and art galleries.
Tasting local products, especially the wines of the Wine Route from Locorotondo and the Apulian gastronomic specialities.
Visit the Belvedere di Santa Lucia for spectacular views of the countryside and the village.
Discovering history through museums and the Archaeological Documentation Centre.
Locorotondo is therefore an ideal stop for those who love art, history and good food in a context of authentic Apulian tradition and breathtaking landscapes. Here's where you can eat in Locorotondo
AIA Zone
The “Zona Aia” in Locorotondo is a very interesting characteristic area to visit. This area takes its name from the ancient threshing floor, the open areas traditionally used for threshing and other agricultural activities, and is distinguished by the presence of around 400 trulli, the typical conical light-coloured stone constructions, symbol of the Valle d'Itria and UNESCO heritage site.
Characteristics of the Hague Zone
This is one of the most charming areas of Locorotondo, where one can admire the typical Apulian rural architecture and the original layout of these historic buildings.
Trulli in the Hague area are often dwellings or small craft workshops that retain their original cone-shaped structure with dry-stone walls.
This area offers an authentic atmosphere and an ideal route for those who wish to discover the rural life and culture of Apulia.
What to do in the Hague Area
Stroll among the trulli admiring their unique construction and discover the most picturesque corners of the village.
Photographing one of the most iconic views of Locorotondo, especially in the golden light at sunset.
Visit any craft workshops or small museums dedicated to local traditions.
The Zona Aia is therefore an essential point of interest for those visiting Locorotondo, ideal for immersing oneself in the centuries-old architectural and rural tradition of this part of Puglia.
How to get there and recommended parking in the historic centre
To get to Locorotondo and find parking in the historic centre, here are the most useful directions and tips based on available information.
How to get to Locorotondo
By car: The town is easily accessible from the A14 (Autostrada Adriatica). Take the exit for Bari Nord or Fasano, following the state and provincial roads that connect the Itria Valley. From Bari, the journey takes about 40 minutes, and from Brindisi about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
From other places: It is also well connected by local and regional bus services to the main cities in the Apulia region.
By train: The nearest station is Fasano, from where you can continue by bus or taxi.
Recommended car parks in the historic centre
Largo S. Vito car park: This is one of the largest and allows you to leave your car near the main entrance to the historic centre, a stone's throw from the ancient gateway.
Via San Giovanni Bosco car park: Located just outside the centre, it is convenient for those who want a quieter, less busy parking spot.
Parking in Via delle Margherite: Lateral to the historic centre, it offers space and easy access to the pedestrian area of the village.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II car park: It is very central, close to the main square and the most important sights, ideal for those who want to get around the main attractions on foot.
Useful tips
The historic centre of Locorotondo is very compact and crossing it is pleasant on foot, so it is advisable to park in the peripheral car parks and take a walk through the village.
During the summer months and at weekends, the nearest car parks can be more crowded, so arriving early in the morning is a good idea.
Some car parks may be chargeable, so check rates and any restrictions in advance.
These car parks are well signposted and provided for easy access to the heart of the village, allowing you to visit all of Locorotondo's attractions in comfort.