Do you like singing? Or do you like diving?
I know the place where you can combine them all, Polignano a Mare. Here, you can experience it all, carried by the wind.
It was actually by coincidence that we saw the statue of singer Domenico Modugno, winner of the Festival di Sanremo in 1958. Just following our instincts, curiosity and a group of Belgian tourists led us towards the sea. And then suddenly you see people with arms open wide shouting “Volare” in front of a statue.
Taking the steps down to the rocky terrace gives you a perfect view over the city and his famous cove.
Polignano a Mare is also known for something else.
Once a year in June, the excitement vibrates in the air when the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition takes place at the Lama Monachile cove.
The divers jump from a balcony at people’s homes and from a specially built diving platform above the private homes.
It’s not only Italian divers but athletes from all over the world who compete for first place. Which is perfectly understandable, because it’s such a unique place.
The streets and alleys of Polignano are truly charming, easy to get lost in, but the sea is never far away ;-)
A mere 10 kilometres further along the coast lies Monopoli, a sleepy coastal town that wants nothing to do with the board game Monopoly.
Monopoli derives its name from the Greek ‘monos polis’ which means unique and singular. And here too, there is that cosy atmosphere in the air.
The old town and the old harbour, which is somewhat hidden away, are very charming. It was also wonderful to walk along the Lungomare Santa Maria coastal road with a refreshing sea breeze in your face. With temperatures above 30 degrees, a breeze like this is more than welcome.
Passing Piazza Alessandro Manzoni, we followed the historic route that led us through a tunnel. And suddenly you find yourself in a square in front of a late Baroque façade. Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima della Madia.
From the outside, the Basilica did not reveal its grandeur. Once inside, we stood in awe, admiring the splendour and magnificence. A mix of marble and faux marble, a beautiful dome and an intimate chapel. A staircase leads up to the beautiful chapel with stunning marble work in different colours. A must see.
