At mealtime, the delightful aroma of pizza wafted through the village square of Castiglione d'Otranto, in the heart of the Salento region − or at the "boot heel" of Italy. The pizzas came straight from the oven of Pizzeria Italia, located opposite the castle that has fallen into disrepair. Next door, just behind the small baroque church, groups gathered on the shaded terrace of Trattoria Vardaceli to enjoy pasta and fish dishes.

Villagers chatted, seated on benches in the center of the square. Others engaged in small talk in the surrounding alleys, in front of houses with colorful facades. Here, everyone knows each other, or almost. The town has only 1,200 residents year-round. In summer, their numbers swell with a few travelers coming to enjoy the vita lenta (the "slow life").

One family in particular has settled in seamlessly: theParisian Rocchias – Clara, Mikka and their three children. These Italy lovers got married in Tuscany 14 years ago, then rented a vacation home in the area for several consecutive summers before buying their own in 2023 in this village that is now so dear to them.

A simple and soothing ensemble

The Maison Manara is located behind a large porch on Via Luciano Manara, a small street leading to the main square. This L-shaped 1930s construction spans 150 square meters on one level. With its vaulted ceilings, lime-painted walls, wooden interior shutters and large rooftop terrace, it immediately captivated the Rocchias.

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