Within a few miles of the sandy beaches of either the Adriatic or the Ionian Sea stands the walled city of Specchia, resplendent above a shimmering ocean of olive groves. At once, it is ancient, medieval, Baroque and proud. Specchia, wonderfully restored, boasts fewer than 5000 inhabitants. Within its narrow lanes, filled with heavenly aromas, are quaint shops and magnificently adorned buildings.
The Salento region is blessed with two seas and dozens of old towns. Thousands of years prior to the first Greek settler, this area was already ancient. Paleolithic paintings, the oldest in Italy, are found in the grottos and caves lining the shores. Among them, Grotta Porcinara, at the southernmost tip of Puglia where the two Seas join, is manmade - an amazing feat in prehistoric times! Down through the ages, scores of traders, raiders and rulers have all left their mark, however involuntarily, on the sunny tip of Italy.
Spring arrives in early March and bathes the land in a riot of colors. Flora and fauna found nowhere else thrive here. The cuisine, unique and delicious, is made by folks who are gentle and polite, friendly and very beautiful.
Each townhouse is individually owned; therefore, amenities vary and are noted in each description. All are located in the historical center of Specchia spread across a 100 yard stretch near the church bell tower that chimes every hour into the early evening.
Each home has been restored to its original charm. They all are simple and quaint, forming an attractive mix of arches, tile and masonry. Barocco is furnished in a homey, country farming motif and has a private parking spot. All other units require on street parking. The owner of Braida, a large studio for two, has personally restored many of the home's antiques and added window screens. Guests of Garibaldi are greeted by a friendly owner with fresh eggs from his nearby farm. Maid service may be arranged at the time of booking.
The closest train station in Miggiano, with service to Lecce, is a 10 minute drive away as are the towns of Tricase, Alessano and Presicce; the closest beaches of the Salentine coast: 20; Santa Maria di Leuca or Castro Marina: 30; Otranto or Gallipoli: 40; Lecce: 50; Brindisi: 90; Taranto: 120 and Bari: three hours.
Technical Description
Ground floor: From the parking area 16 steps into a stone vaulted, eat-in kitchen with hand painted majolica tile stove top, fridge, fireplace and CD player.
Mezzanine: One bedroom with two single, joinable beds, door to outside and en suite bathroom with shower.
First floor: One bedroom with two single, joinable beds and en suite bathroom with shower and washing machine.
Private garage space for one car, 20 yards away.
