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If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Martina Franca.
Nestled in the heart of Puglia like a hidden gem, Martina Franca awaits with its narrow alleys, exquisite baroque architecture, and traditional countryside charm – a town where time seems to freeze, allowing visitors to indulge in the authentic Italian way of life.
From savoring the flavors of the local cuisine to exploring the winding streets and piazzas, Martina Franca offers a wealth of experiences that will transport you to a bygone era of effortless elegance.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Martina Franca:
1. Basilica di San Martino
The Basilica di San Martino is a beautiful Baroque church located in the picturesque town of Martina Franca, in the province of Taranto, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning architecture and decorative elements of the basilica, including the intricate façade, the soaring nave, and the ornate altars and chapels.
The interior is also home to a number of precious artworks, such as frescoes, paintings, sculptures, and mosaics.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a close look at the striking 18th century organ, which is one of the largest in Southern Italy.
Additionally, the church is home to an impressive collection of vestments and religious artifacts, some of which date back several centuries.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the beauty of the basilica, it’s recommended to visit during daylight hours when the sunlight streams through the stained glass windows.
Additionally, it’s worth checking the timetable for mass and other services, as attending a religious ceremony in this awe-inspiring setting can be a truly unforgettable experience.
2. Palazzo Ducale
Palazzo Ducale is a historic palace located in the heart of Martina Franca, a charming town in the region of Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the palace’s opulent rooms adorned with frescoes, sculptures, and antique furnishings. Guided tours are available, and visitors can learn about the palace’s rich history and its past inhabitants.
Don’t miss: The grand ballroom, featuring intricate stucco-work, frescoes, and an impressive chandelier. The chapel, with its beautiful ceiling decorated with colorful frescoes.
Insider travel tips: Visit the palace during the annual opera festival held in the town’s picturesque main square. Take a stroll around the palace’s gardens and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Don’t forget to sample the local cuisine, particularly the famous “orecchiette” pasta dish, while in Martina Franca.
3. Chiesa di San Domenico
Chiesa di San Domenico is a beautiful church located in the heart of the historic city of Martina Franca, in southern Italy.
What to see or do: The church’s Baroque architecture and ornamentation are sure to take your breath away. Admire the intricately carved facades and step inside to marvel at the soaring ceilings, stunning altarpieces, and beautiful frescoes.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the impressive wooden statue of Christ on the cross, which is kept in a small chapel to the left of the nave.
The statue is widely considered to be a masterpiece of southern Italian sculpture.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re interested in learning more about the history and art of the church, consider joining a guided tour. Several different companies offer tours in English and Italian.
4. Piazza Maria Immacolata
Piazza Maria Immacolata is a bustling square located in the heart of Martina Franca, a charming town in the Puglia region of Italy.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings featuring intricate Baroque and Rococo architecture. Take a stroll and admire the ornate facades, elegant balconies and charming little details.
This square is also home to the striking Church of the Immaculate Conception, an impressive example of Baroque art and architecture.
Don’t miss: Be sure to stop and try some of the delicious local specialities at one of the many cafes and restaurants lining the square.
The cafés and restaurants offer seating outside which is one of the best ways to enjoy this beautiful square.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Piazza Maria Immacolata is during the evening when the place is bustling with life, music and laughter.
However, during the day, this square tends to be less crowded if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
5. Piazza XX Settembre
Piazza XX Settembre is the main square of Martina Franca, a charming town in the Puglia region of Italy.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the elegant piazza, admire the beautiful baroque buildings and the grand Palazzo Ducale, and soak up the lively atmosphere of the town.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Church of San Martino, located on the square, to see its ornate interior and stunning altarpiece.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit Piazza XX Settembre on a warm summer evening when it comes alive with music, street performers and alfresco dining.
Don’t forget to try the local specialty, cartellate, a delicious deep-fried pastry drizzled with honey.
6. Chiesa di San Francesco
A beautiful church in the heart of Martina Franca, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the Baroque architecture, ornate details, and frescoes that adorn the interior of the church. Check out the elaborate wooden choir and the impressive pipe organ.
Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the spiritual significance of this sacred space.
Don’t miss: The Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, which features a stunning altarpiece depicting the Virgin Mary. The chapel is located to the left of the entrance and is a true masterpiece of Baroque art.
Insider travel tips: Visit the church during one of its religious festivals to witness the local community come together for traditional processions and other celebrations.
Take note of the opening hours, as the church may be closed during certain times of the day or year. Respect the quiet environment and dress modestly out of respect for the religious significance of the church.
7. Museo della Basilica di San Martino
Museo della Basilica di San Martino is a museum located within the Basilica of Saint Martin in Martina Franca, Italy.
What to see or do: The museum displays a collection of sacred objects, paintings and sculptures. Visitors can admire the stunning works of art created by various artists over the centuries, showcasing different styles and techniques.
You can also marvel at the intricate details found in the architecture of the Basilica.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the “Deposition from the Cross” by Carlo Gesualdo and the “Immaculate Conception” by Luca Giordano.
Take a moment to appreciate the intricate high altar, dedicated to Saint Martin, the patron saint of Martina Franca.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the museum requires a bit of walking and exploring. Take your time to appreciate the art and architecture and buy some souvenirs at the gift shop.
Consider visiting during weekdays, as the museum can get crowded on weekends and public holidays.
8. Largo Cappuccini
A charming square located in the historic center of Martina Franca, a town in the province of Taranto, in Apulia, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a stroll in the square and admire the beautiful Baroque architecture of the buildings surrounding it. Visit the nearby San Francesco church and the Palazzo Ducale.
Don’t miss: The weekly market on Saturday morning, where you can buy local products and souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: Visit the Largo Cappuccini during the day for the best lighting conditions to take photographs. Stay until the evening for a romantic atmosphere and to see the square lit up.
Don’t forget to try some of the local tasty treats, such as taralli and pasticciotto.
9. Parco della Rupe
Parco della Rupe is a scenic natural park in Martina Franca, Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the picturesque trails of this scenic park. The park boasts stunning limestone cliffs, lush forests, and a charming waterfall.
The park is also an ideal location for a picnic surrounded by the natural beauty of Puglia.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to check out the impressive limestone cliffs that tower over the park. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Insider travel tips: The park can get quite busy on weekends and holidays, so it’s best to visit during weekdays for a more peaceful experience.
Be sure to bring your own food and water for picnics, as there are no on-site facilities for refreshments. Additionally, wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for hiking and walking in nature.
Finally, don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking natural vistas of this scenic park.
10. Chiesa di Sant’Antonio da Padova
Chiesa di Sant’Antonio da Padova is a beautiful church located in the historic center of Martina Franca in Italy.
What to see or do: The church is known for its stunning ornate Baroque facade, which is made of local white stone.
Visitors can also admire the intricate sculptures and frescoes inside the church, including the high altar with its gilded decorations and the dome, which depicts scenes from the life of St.
Anthony.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a closer look at the highly detailed frescoes in the apse, which were painted by Francesco Solimena in 1735.
Insider travel tips: The church can be accessed for free, but donations to support its preservation are always welcome. Visitors should be respectful of the religious nature of the site and dress appropriately.
For an even more memorable experience, attend a Sunday Mass to hear the beautiful choir singing in the church’s incredible acoustics.
11. Piazza Plebiscito
Piazza Plebiscito is a charming square located in the heart of Martina Franca, a stunning town in the Puglia region of Southern Italy.
What to see or do: The square is adorned with elegant Baroque buildings and features an impressive obelisk at its center. Take a stroll around the square and admire the magnificent architecture of the nearby buildings, including the beautiful Palazzo Ducale.
Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the nearby Chiesa di San Martino, a gorgeous Baroque church with stunning frescoes and a beautiful bell tower.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit Piazza Plebiscito at night when the square is illuminated, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Additionally, make sure to stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants in the square to enjoy a delicious Italian coffee or meal while soaking up the charming ambiance.
12. Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie
A beautiful Baroque-style church located in the town of Martina Franca in Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Admire the striking white facade of the church and the elaborate architectural details that decorate it.
Step inside the church to see the stunning frescoes and paintings that adorn the walls and ceilings, including works by famous artists such as Giovanni Battista Lama and Paolo de Matteis.
Don’t miss: The church’s most famous masterpiece, the painting of the Madonna della Pace by the Italian artist Pompeo Batoni.
It is located in the church’s chapel and is regarded as one of the finest examples of religious art in southern Italy.
Insider travel tips: – The church is open to visitors daily, but hours may vary so be sure to check ahead.
13. Porta di Santo Stefano
Porta di Santo Stefano is a historic gateway located in the charming town of Martina Franca in Puglia, Italy.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through this beautiful arched gateway, which dates back to the 18th century and is one of the remaining entrances into the old town center.
Admire the impressive Baroque-style architecture and the beautifully-carved stone decorations that surround the archway.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take some time to explore the picturesque streets and alleys of the old town center once you pass through Porta di Santo Stefano.
You’ll find charming cafes, historic palaces, and stunning examples of local architecture.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for the ultimate Puglian experience, visit Martina Franca during the annual Festival della Valle d’Itria.
During this festival, the town comes alive with music, theater, and dance performances, making it the perfect time to explore Porta di Santo Stefano and the rest of Martina Franca.
14. Largo Martellotta
A charming square in the historical center of Martina Franca, a beautiful town in the Puglia region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the square and admire the beautifully preserved Baroque and Rococo architecture of the surrounding buildings. Visit the nearby Church of San Domenico and marvel at its stunning frescoes and ornate décor.
Check out the local shops and cafes and enjoy some delicious gelato or pastries.
Don’t miss: The annual Martina Franca Festival, which takes place in the summer and features an exciting lineup of classical music concerts, opera performances, and other cultural events.
Insider travel tips: Visit Largo Martellotta in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem.
Take a guided walking tour of the town to learn more about its fascinating history and cultural highlights.
Be sure to try some of the local food specialities, such as “orecchiette” pasta with meat and vegetable sauce, during your stay.
15. Chiesa di San Giuseppe
Chiesa di San Giuseppe is a stunning Baroque-style church located in the historic center of Martina Franca, a picturesque town in the Apulia region of southern Italy.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the elaborate exterior facade adorned with decorative statues and intricate carvings, as well as the impressive interior that features grand columns, ornate frescoes, and a beautiful altar.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the church’s stunning ceiling that is adorned with vivid depictions of scenes from the life of Saint Joseph, as well as the striking marble baptismal font.
Insider travel tips: For an even more impressive experience, try to visit the Chiesa di San Giuseppe during one of the town’s many festivals or events, when the church is often adorned with colorful flowers and festive decorations.
Also, make sure to dress appropriately, as this is a house of worship.