The tour begins in Piazza Garibaldi and includes the visit of famous monuments such as the Basilica of the Madonna della Madia, a rupestrian settlement and the castle of Charles V, perched over the sea.
The tour goes on walking along whitewashed medieval alleys, admiring divine baroque decorations and picturesque inlets by the sea. While taking memorable pictures, taste delicious local products.
The tour ends with a stroll along the ancient walls and the breathtaking tiny harbor which has made the town famous all over the world.
Monopoli Guided Tour<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Walking through the archway, which leads off the Banchina Solfatara into Piazza Garibaldi, starts a journey that ventures into the Old town. Something which immediately catches the eye is Palazzo Rendella. Following Via Amalfitana, you pass the Church of St Maria degli Amalfitani, the only religious building in the urban fabric which bears traces of important Romanesque sculpture and architecture. Crossing Vico Gesuti which flanks its namesake building, you come to via Garibaldi the former via dei Mecanti, which terminates in Largo Plebiscito, in front of the church of St. Fracis of Assisi and the former convent annex which is now the seat of the Town Hall. Largo Plebiscito merges with Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, commonly known as "il Borgo" by the local Monopolitans.
Via Cattedrale leads to the charming Baroque setting in which the Cathedral dedicated to Madonna della Madia, the Saint protector of Monopoli stands out. The icon of Madonna della Madia landed to the seaport miraculously at the sunrise of December the 16th in 117. The poignant event of landing is commemorated every year in the same day with a huge community involvement. The Feast Day is commemorated with solemn celebrations on August the 15th with illuminations and fireworks. The original building built up in 1107 above a previous Romanesque church was completed ten years later with wooden timbers - still preserved- of the raft that carried on the precious icon of the town.
The castle of Monopoli, built on the strip of land more advanced than the sea, was part of the coastal fortification system, wanted by Charles V in Apulia. The Castle is a cultural center managed by the City as well as the municipal center to celebrate weddings with the civil rite.
The Municipality of Monopoli, within the scope of its statutory powers and objectives aimed at safeguarding cultural heritage, promotes and encourages the protection, conservation and use of Charles V Castle of Monopoli, in order to ensure a regular right of access to the community.
We are not able to grantee the entrance during the tour. Its complete visit would require much more time. However, your guide will show you the castle from the outside ensuring the best view and providing you with the history of it.
Tourist Info Point
Alberobello and Locorotondo are charming hilltop towns in Puglia, famous for their unique trulli houses with conical roofs. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a glimpse into traditional Apulian architecture and lifestyle, surrounded by beautiful olive groves and vineyards.
The historic center of Alberobello, famous for its trulli houses with conical roofs.
Another historic area in Alberobello with a mix of trulli and modern buildings.
The charming historic center of Locorotondo, known for its circular layout and whitewashed buildings.
The only two-story trullo open to the public, featuring a museum and a small garden.
A historic trullo with a museum showcasing traditional Apulian life and furniture.
A historic palace in Locorotondo with a museum showcasing local art and history.
A type of pasta shaped like small ears, typically served with broccoli rabe or tomatoes.
A creamy cheese made from mozzarella and cream, typically served with bread and tomatoes.
A type of flatbread topped with olive oil, salt, and sometimes herbs or vegetables.
Deep-fried pastries filled with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and sometimes other ingredients.
This is the best time to visit for warm weather and outdoor activities. The towns are vibrant, and many festivals take place during these months.
Euro (EUR)
CET (UTC +1), CEST (UTC +2 during daylight saving time)
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Alberobello and Locorotondo are generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Alberobello Station, Locorotondo Station
Alberobello Bus Station, Locorotondo Bus Station
Buses are the primary mode of public transport, connecting towns and villages.
Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow
Car, Bike, Scooter
A picturesque coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, cliffs, and historic center.
A historic town known for its unique Sassi district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A whitewashed hilltop town known for its beautiful architecture and historic center.
Price varies by option