One of my very favorite things to see in the little villages of Puglia are the tenderly cared for porches and courtyards of the local residents. Freshly swept and colorful, they speak volumes about the people who live there. In the photo above, a lush garden cultivated in pots line the stairways and add a sense of privacy to seating areas. The welcoming effect always causes me to stop as I’m passing by and observe. It’s not unusual for the lady of the house to come out and greet me with a warm smile and a hug. She is as tidy and impeccably dressed as her little courtyard. She is proud of her home and I heartily express my enthusiasm for her lovely garden.
Isn’t this lady of the house lovely? We couldn’t communicate much but I felt the love through her warm smile and sweet countenance. I’ve since tucked this away as one of my fondest memories.
Have you had a similar experience in Italy or anywhere else? Please feel free to share your memories…
Timeless Italy Travels 
The best is in the evening, neighbours get together in front of their houses and have a chat…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Isn’t that wonderful? I love this aspect about the elderly in Italy.
LikeLike
How beautiful – you’ve inspired me on how to do a courtyard at home. the unexpected memories are so often the best.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, they are. These little unexpected nooks are such a delight to stumble upon:)
LikeLike
Susan! What an inviting post – I can just about picture myself there in the courtyard. Puglia is on our list and hope to spend time there next year! I just love your posts – as if you’re speaking to us!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Deborah. I know you would love Puglia…the whitewashed villages are so intriguing, and the potted gardens are such a beautiful sight to behold.
LikeLike
How glorious – reminds me of some of the courtyards in Crete – in particular Chania in Western Crete where the Venetian influence still remains in the architecture and the little gardens. Thank you – lovely way to start the week! F
LikeLiked by 1 person
My pleasure! Thank you for sharing your memories of the courtyards in Crete. I have been there and I know what you are talking about. Absolutely lovely.
LikeLike
Dear Susan, what a lovely courtyard, lovely flowers and lovely picture of you two. Your posts about Italy reveal so many wonderful neighborhoods to visit and view. I could spend all day touring courtyards and gardens.
Blessings ~ Wendy
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Wendy! Blessings to you:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
True! And have you been to Alberobello? Amazing town!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh yes, Alberobello is amazing…
LikeLiked by 1 person
loving her dress đŸ™‚
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sweet isn’t it?
LikeLike
So very sweet. Love that photo with you and La Signora. My similar experience was also in Puglia, when I visited a school where my cousin taught. We were greeted by the very elderly nun/headmistress who was tiny, thin, but so spunky, loving and welcoming. It is a beautiful memory. Thank you for the post!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you! Always my pleasure…and I’m glad you have a wonderful memory of your own.
LikeLiked by 1 person
That is also what I love Susan. And, i love that first photo. Picture perfect.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you Lyn
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very inviting! Looking forward to a trip to Puglia in October.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So exciting. Have a wonderful time.
LikeLike