Friday 22 July 2011

Galatina, Puglia, Italy


In the heart of Galatina is a large square dominated by the fourteenth century church of Santa Caterina d'Alessandria. Its striking cream Romanesque facade is inset with beautifully-carved statues, gargoyles, cherubs and many other religious symbols.  Inside, the extraordinary nave is covered in fading medieval frescoes. The old town behind the church, which is still paved with original flagstones, boasts rows of well-preserved golden town houses with huge windows and cast-iron balconies. Some are lavishly carved in the Baroque style. Galatina doesn't have many sights, but it is a pleasant town to wonder around in the late afternoon sun, before devouring an ice cream at one of the al fresco tables belonging to the cafes in the main square. 7/10