Here is a clear and complete overview of gozze and lance, their significance in the Italian maritime tradition and, in particular, in Monopoli: what they are, how they are made, why they are linked to the city, their social use and the customs of fishermen and artisans, with curiosities and historical references.
1. What are goiters and spears
Gozze
The term “gozzo” denotes a traditional coastal fishing boat, widespread along the Italian Mediterranean coast, with a history dating back centuries. They are relatively small, sturdy and versatile boats, initially rowed or powered by lateen sail, and later also with a motor. Traditional Sailing A.S.D.+1
In Monopoli, the gozzo is recognised as a local symbol of seafaring, with a typical livery in blue and red associated with popular devotion and the Madonna della Madia.
Lance
The lance is a boat similar to the gozzo but with a square stern (while the gozzo has a pointed stern). Historically, it was used for short coastal crossings, transporting people or as a support boat for fishing.
2. Boat building: craft tradition
Materials and Technique
Traditionally, gozze were built entirely of wood by shipwrights, specialised artisans capable of transforming logs into functional hulls without technical drawings, but thanks to the knowledge passed down orally and experience.
Planking and framework: hard-wearing local wood (such as oak or pine) was often used for the keel and ribs, with planking boards attached by hand.
Hull shape: the characteristic double-pointed shape (bow and stern) and rounded hull allow manoeuvrability and stability, essential for fishing and beach hauling.
Labour: construction activity was communal: it involved those who made oars, those who caulked with pitch and breeze, those who made sails or ropes.
In Monopoli, until recent times, production was carried out by local shipwrights, such as the famous Vincenzo Saponaro, custodian of long-standing techniques in the construction of wooden goiters and fishing boats, who trained generations of craftsmen.
3. Link with Monopoly: use, custom and identity
Maritime and social uses
Gozzi and lances were never “museum objects”, but everyday working tools:
Inshore fishing: used by fishermen to catch fish in shallow waters or between reefs due to their manoeuvrability.
Landing and hauling: light and stable, they could be easily hauled ashore on the beach or in the harbour without complex infrastructure.
Local transport: they were also used to carry people and goods short distances along the coast.
Identity symbol and popular tradition
Over time, the gozzo has become an identifying symbol of the Monopoli navy:
Colours and symbolism: the local colours (blue and red) are associated with city traditions, such as devotion to the Madonna della Madia.
Daily presence: until the 20th century, it was common to see gozzi moored along the old harbour, with fishermen preparing them at dawn to go out to sea.
4. Festive uses, events and new meanings
Contemporary events
Monopoli also celebrates the link with these vessels through popular initiatives such as “Gozzovigliando”an autumn event in the harbour that includes:
gozzo outings along the coast for locals and tourists;
educational and fishing activities to pass on seafaring culture to the younger generation;
markets and tastings linked to fishing traditions.
These initiatives not only celebrate the boats themselves, but also restore value to the collective memory and maritime roots of the community.
5. Curiosity
Models and handicrafts: gozzi have become souvenirs and objects of local art, for example handmade terracotta reproducing the characteristic hulls.
Tourist symbol: like gondolas in Venice, Monopoli's gozzi are now visual icons of the city and its port.
Survival of tradition: the art of the shipwright is in decline, but is trying to survive in small workshops and craft yards. barinedita.it
6. Synthesis
In short, gozze and lances in Monopoli are not just boats: they are pieces of material culture and local identity. They represent
the millennial evolution of small-scale fishing in the Mediterranean,
the craftsmanship of the shipwrights,
the customs and daily life of fishermen,
an intangible heritage now also celebrated through community events and initiatives.