Day 17 - Polignano

In much of the countryside the fences are constructed of rocks dug from the local limestone.

Breakfasts are buffets, with a good range of yoghurt, fruits, bread, ham and cheese.  Unfortunately these also come with large sweet cakes which Europeans seem to prefer.  The coffee is strong and bitter, but tea is fine.

Some of the olive trees are hundreds of years old.  As they grow their trunks spiral, always in a clockwise direction.

Today we travelled to the city of Lecce for a guided visit through the old town.  This city is often nicknamed "Florence of the South" because of its abundant art and culture.  

In the afternoon we visited the town of Ostuni, known as the "white fortress".  It is located high on a hill with a protective view over the precious olive trees between there and the sea.



We came across this small beach in Polignano which is popular with the locals.  This is where the annual Red Bull High Diving competitions take place from a narrow ledge some 30 metres above the water.



The photo shows only a quarter of the amphitheater, the rest has been built over in the last 300 years.  It is located in the centre of the old town of Lecce, the other three quarters cannot be restored as there are too many historical buildings on top of it.



Inside the magnificent baroque cathedral situated at a high point in Lecce.



Simona our very helpful guide and Judy under an oleander tree near the entrance to the old town of Lecce.



The spire of another incredible church in Lecce.



At Ostini this church was built at the highest point on the hill.  Great view all around.  The interior was built completely from the local limestone and then painted to resemble marble.



View from Ostini across the olive groves to the sea some 15 kilometres away.



Ostini was steep and a long climb up.  This little battery powered vehicle came in handy for a quick circuit of the old town.



Steps every corner you come to, good way to keep fit.

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