The history of Porto Rosso in Monopoli is an integral part of the long history of the port of Monopoli, which dates back to the Messapian and Roman eras, with fortifications and archaeological evidence of settlements dating back to the 15th century BC. The ancient port, in the historic area of Monopoli, was an important commercial and military port in the Middle Ages and continues to be a landmark for fishermen and visitors alike.
Interesting facts include the fortifications incorporated into the Castle of Charles V and the various historical phases of the port, including the attempt by merchant Michele De Martino to build part of the port independently in the 19th century before public funding was obtained. Today, Porto Rosso is also known for its sandy coves and the quality of its waters, which are very popular for their natural beauty and central location near the town of Monopoli.
In summary, Porto Rosso is a historic location that combines ancient roots, strategic commercial and military value, and today is a popular tourist destination appreciated for its beaches and sea views.
How Porto Rosso developed in the Middle Ages
The development of Monopoli's Porto Rosso in the Middle Ages is linked to the city's importance as a commercial and maritime port in the Adriatic Sea. In the Middle Ages, Monopoli was an important port for maritime trade, with the port structure developing around a natural basin that had been used since ancient times, then expanded with masonry works to improve protection and mooring for ships.
During the Middle Ages, the port took on a strategic role not only commercially but also militarily, with the strengthening of the defensive walls and the construction of buildings such as the Castle of Charles V, which guarded access to the port. The infrastructure was adapted and upgraded to accommodate the increasingly heavy traffic of merchant ships, with areas dedicated to loading, unloading, storage and shelter for vessels.
The port thus developed as the economic and military hub of the city, providing connections with other Adriatic cities and Mediterranean trade routes, and consolidating Monopoli as an important maritime reference point in the Middle Ages.
Walking tour to visit the old port and monuments
Here is a walking itinerary to visit the ancient port of Monopoli and the main historical monuments nearby:
Starting from the Old Port, you can walk along the quayside where you can admire the traditional “gozzi”, the blue and red fishing boats that create an authentic and evocative atmosphere. From the harbour, you can reach the Porta dell'Antico Porto, a window overlooking the sea with picturesque views. Not far away is Palazzo Martinelli, with its elegant Venetian-style loggia dating back to the 15th century.
Continuing on, you will arrive at Castle Charles V, a sixteenth-century fortress overlooking the city and the harbour. The castle is a place of historical interest and offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic centre. From here, you can walk to the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, built in the twelfth century and famous for its icon of the Madonna della Madia, linked to a maritime legend.
Finally, we recommend stopping off at Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, the beating heart of city life with bars, restaurants and shops, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere. The entire route offers an experience steeped in history, art, maritime culture and the typical atmosphere of Puglia.
Detailed 2-hour tour of the historic centre with map
Here is a detailed walking route of about 2 hours in the historic centre of Monopoli, with the main monuments and places of interest, ideal for a complete visit:
Departure from Porta Vecchia, the ancient historic entrance to the seaside village, symbol of Monopoli's most distant history.
Continue towards the Old Port, where you can admire traditional boats and enjoy views of the sea.
From there, head towards Castle Charles V, a 16th-century fortification overlooking the coast and offering panoramic views of the sea.
Visit to the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, impressive in its Romanesque and Baroque style, with the famous icon of the Madonna della Madia.
Continue walking through narrow streets, squares (such as Piazza Garibaldi), historic buildings and minor churches such as San Domenico and San Francesco d'Assisi.
Walk through Via dei Mercanti to appreciate local life and medieval architecture.
Conclude with a stroll along the seafront to enjoy the view and atmosphere of Monopoli at sunset.
For a detailed map, you can consult free tourist maps available online or at the Monopoli Tourist Office, such as a downloadable PDF map with historical itineraries of the town centre.
Alternative route for people with reduced mobility
Here is an alternative itinerary in the historic centre and old port of Monopoli suitable for people with reduced mobility:
Departure from Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, spacious and easily accessible, convenient arrival point with reserved parking spaces in the centre.
From here, walk along paths with even paving and no steps, towards Porto Antico.
I stroll along the harbour quay to admire the fishing boats and the fishermen's way of life without having to tackle any hills.
External visit to Carlo V Castle, with easy access for people with disabilities.
Continue unhindered to the Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, which is accessible and has comfortable spaces around it.
Walk through the historic centre, limiting the route to streets with paving suitable for wheelchairs or walking frames, avoiding narrow alleys or stairways.
Conclude your visit by relaxing in one of the bars or restaurants along the seafront, all of which are wheelchair accessible.
Monopoli has worked to improve accessibility in the historic centre and at points of interest, with ramps, even paving and disabled parking nearby. We recommend checking routes in advance based on individual abilities and contacting the tourist office for updates on accessibility.
Tips on where to stop for a typical coffee along the way
During your tour of the historic centre and around the old port of Monopoli, there are several traditional establishments where you can stop for a coffee or a tasty snack, many of which offer excellent accessibility, a distinctive atmosphere and local products.
Historic and traditional cafés along the route
Naples Coffee
Historic central café in Via Garibaldi, authentic atmosphere and chocolate shop. Accessible, ideal for a quick break.
Open until 1:00 a.m.
+39 080 930 3104
Veneto Caffè since 1963
Traditional café on Via Roma since 1963, wide selection of local pastries and ice cream, welcoming and accessible atmosphere.
Open until 11:30pm
+39 080 930 1322
New Award-winning Caffé Venezia
Historic bar in Via Garibaldi: breakfast, desserts and coffee, historic atmosphere, very popular. Large indoor dining room and terrace.
Open until 2:00 a.m.
+39 080 219 6364
Caffè del Corso | Café with kitchen
On Corso Umberto I, traditional breakfast and café, local pastries and fresh dishes. Accessible, also ideal for brunch.
+39 080 321 9778
Café Machiavelli Monopoli
Small, modern bistro and bar on Via Garibaldi, renowned for its coffee and aperitifs, welcoming and LGBTQ+ friendly.
Open until 4:00 pm
+39 351 827 0289
La maggior parte di questi caffè si trova lungo vie centrali come Via Garibaldi, Via Roma e Corso Umberto I, facilmente raggiungibili e spesso privi di barriere architettoniche. Si consiglia in particolare Caffè Napoli per chi cerca un’esperienza storica in centro, Veneto Caffè dal 1963 per pasticceria e gelato tipico, e Nuovo Premiato Caffé Venezia per la sua atmosfera classica e centralissima. Cafè Machiavelli è perfetto per una pausa più moderna e raccolta, mentre Caffè del Corso offre anche opzioni brunch e cucina leggera.
Raggiungere questi locali è semplice lungo l’itinerario classico o quello accessibile, e molti sono dotati di servizi per sedie a rotelle, spazio interno ampio e tavolini esterni