Madonna della Greca, Medieval church in Locorotondo, Italy
Madonna della Greca is a church in Locorotondo with a bell-shaped front facade decorated with a stone rose window and statues of Saints Peter and Paul at its corners. The interior holds several artworks, including a polyptych of the Virgin of the Roses positioned above the High Altar.
The building dates to the 7th or 8th century but underwent major reconstruction in 1481 under the direction of Prince Pirro Orsini del Balzo of Taranto. This renovation shaped the structure visible today.
The church's name references Greek Orthodox influences that shaped the region and Marian devotion among early refugee communities. Local residents connect this place to their faith and gather here for prayer and celebrations.
The church sits at the entrance of the old town and is easy to reach while exploring Locorotondo's center. Morning or early afternoon visits work well, as natural light illuminates the interior and highlights the artworks more clearly.
The interior columns display elaborate classical carvings with putti and sirens alongside motifs from the animal and plant kingdoms. These details show the craftsmanship of sculptors who blended both sacred and secular imagery into the design.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
