Shopping and Facilities

The Italians have high streets with small shops that serve their own specialities. The small town of Santa Maria shown here has a wide variety of shops, bars and banks. Local businesses are usually family run—San Andrea olive oil is for sale in the greengrocer's shop and you will be told it came from 'my sister's farm'. Supermarkets are few and far between and small.

Shopping hours are Mediterranean usually 7:30am to 1:00pm and from 5:00pm until 8:00pm and sometimes later. The shutters come down when closed! The fresh produce shops are simple but delightful, and specialise in local and seasonal produce. Shopping is daily for the Italian casalinga (housewife) so why not follow her example. It is all in very easy walking distance from the noble houses.