Il territorio | Escursioni Sofia | Sali a bordo, scopri Polignano a Mare

The heart of Polignano a mare rises on a rocky spur overlooking the Adriatic sea. The ancient village is one of the most evocative places in Polignano a Mare. The historic center is perched 24 meters above the sea. The entrance to the village is marked by the imposing marquis arch that welcomes visitors along the road that leads to the Piazza dell'Orologio. Here there are buildings such as the Governor's Palace and the Mother Church as well as the former cathedral. Small paved streets branch off from the square that accompany the visitor in what can be defined as the very symbol of the city, the terraces: these are loggias overlooking the Adriatic Sea offering, especially with the play of light at night, breathtaking views that transform a walk into a unique experience. Of considerable historical interest are the remains of the Roman domination such as the bridge of the Via Traiana, which is still viable.

About 3 km north of the city we meet the small hamlet of San Vito, Patron Saint of Polignano a Mare, celebrated on June, the 15th. Close to the natural harbor, which over the centuries was a favourite destination for foreign populations and invaders, stands the majestic Abbey. According to legend, the ship of Princess Florenza landed on these shores in 801 with the relics of the body of San Vito and his tutors, Modesto and Crescenza. A small, well-preserved Romanesque church is attached to the monastic complex.

Another symbolic place is the island of San Paolo which is located about 300 meters from the cliff of Polignano, on the southern outskirts of the city. To the locals it is known as the "Rock of the Hermit" because, according to legend, a man who had decided to live far from the world settled there. On the top there are the ruins of a chapel dedicated to S. Antonio Abate (1612) used as a hospital during 1837 to deal with cholera. On the rock you can still see the ruins of the well for collecting rainwater and an iron cross fixed by some missionaries in 1901 on the occasion of the centenary celebrations in honor of the patron saint San Vito Martire. You cannot miss the opportunity to photograph this rock which at sunset and dawn is tinged with suggestive colors and an irresistible charm.

Escursioni Sofia s.r.l.s.
tel: +393317856458
email: info@sofiaescursioni.it
P.Iva: 07899840727
s.c. Fusella n/c
70044 Polignano a Mare (BA)

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