Archpriests and prelates of Alberobello

The value of this book, born for historical need in the vicinity of the 200 years of the Parish of Alberobello (1814-2014), is in having filled the gap that has been perpetuated for two centuries. The author has reconstructed the biographies of the Arci priests who in the long period of years have alternated, placing them in their historical moment. Among these is exalted for the merits of the figure of Don Giovanni Battista Martellotta, who, after 23 years dedicated to the care of the Parish of Santi Medici in Alberobello, by the will of the bishop of the Diocese, left the Basilica-sanctuary on 8 September 2012. For the Community he is an exemplary model of priest, a charitable witness as the Gospel wants, a promoter of innovation in the country. He was responsible for the construction of the church of Madonna della Madia, the renovation of the rectory, the renewal for children and adults of the Oratorio dei Santi Medici, the reconstruction of the parish library, today welcoming and full of not only ecclesial culture, the only cultural pole, and, finally, the care, decoration and enrichment with the placing of statues and sacred furnishings in the Sanctuary. The habit he wore and the moral style he was able to put into practice first as pastor of Conversano and since 1989 as parish priest in Alberobello, have meant that he, regardless of his priestly ministry, was loved by children, young people and adults. Don Giovanni is now part of the history of Alberobello.