Here is a detailed portrait of the Basilica Cattedrale Santissima Maria della Madia — often called the “Duomo di Monopoli” — with its history, works of art, information about Masses and the parish.
🏛 What is Monopoli Cathedral?
The cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Madia, venerated thanks to a miraculous icon worshipped inside.
Originally an independent seat of the Diocese of Monopoli, today (since 1986) it is the co-cathedral of the Diocese of Conversano-Monopoli.
It has held the title of minor basilica since 1921.
📜 History and architecture
Work on building the church began in 1107, on a site that probably housed a Roman temple and a burial ground.
According to tradition, in 1117 an icon of the Virgin Mary arrived by sea on a raft: the beams of that raft were used to build the roof — an event considered miraculous.
The original Romanesque structure was completed and consecrated in 1442.
Over time, the cathedral suffered damage: during the siege of 1528, two of the three bell towers were damaged; the last tower collapsed in 1686, causing casualties among the population.
A general reconstruction began in 1742, and the current Baroque-style building was completed in 1772.
Since then, its monumental façade, Latin cross plan and Baroque decorations have made it one of the most significant examples of sacred architecture in Apulia.
🖼 Interiors, artistic treasures and artefacts
🔹 Icon of Our Lady of Madia
In the chapel behind the high altar is the ancient Byzantine-style iconography of the Madonna della Madia — the same one venerated as “miraculous” for having arrived on a raft.
This icon is venerated as the patron saint of the city.
🔹 Paintings and sculptures
Inside the cathedral there are important works of art:
Paintings from the Venetian and Neapolitan schools, including valuable works by artists such as Palma il Giovane and Francesco De Mura.
Baroque frescoes and decorations enrich the nave, marble decorations, stuccoes, side altars.
🔹 Crypt and archaeological finds
Ancient remains have been found beneath the transept, evidence that the site was also used in Roman times. Some of the finds can be viewed in the adjacent museum-crypt.
The Diocesan Museum of Monopoli, housed in the former bishop's seminary near the cathedral, preserves many of the artefacts, paintings and sacred furnishings from the cathedral and the ecclesiastical territory.
⛪ Parish, ecclesiastical status and diocese
As mentioned, the cathedral — now a minor basilica — is the co-cathedral of the Diocese of Conversano–Monopoli.
It remains one of the city's main centres of worship, with regular liturgical services and public celebrations.
📅 Mass times and visiting hours
According to recent sources, the typical Mass schedule (which may vary on special occasions) is approximately as follows:
Monday–Saturday 7:00 p.m.
Sunday 7:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 7:00 p.m.
In addition, the cathedral is generally open for worship and visits in the morning and afternoon (check for closures or events).
To learn more about the history, crypts and artefacts: the Diocesan Museum, adjacent to the cathedral, is open (opening hours vary: check the website or telephone)
🎯 Why it is worth visiting Monopoli Cathedral
It is a building with ancient roots: its history spans from the Roman era to the Middle Ages and the Baroque period.
It offers a rich artistic heritage: icons, frescoes, Venetian and Neapolitan paintings, marble decorations — something that can appeal to both art lovers and those seeking spirituality.
The combination of popular devotion (the legend of the Madonna della Madia) and sacred art makes it unique, full of charm and mystery.
For those visiting the city or the Apulian coast, it is a must-see: centrally located in the historic centre, easily accessible, and often included in tourist itineraries in the area.