History of Palazzo Martinelli
Epoch and historical context
Palazzo Martinelli is an 18th century mansion built on the ancient city walls of Monopoli, in the historical centre overlooking the harbour.
The building was owned by several local noble families: first the Bandino, then the Carbonelli and the Lentini. Towards the end of the 18th century, it was purchased by the Martinelli family from Mola di Bari; the family renovated the façade and permanently marked it with their name.
Architecture
The façade opens onto the old harbour with a dramatic sequence of 18th-century windows with pagoda gables and round arches, typical features of the period.
The most recognisable motif is the Venetian neo-Gothic style loggia with eight ogival arches, resting on three wider arches towards the sea; this detail gives the building a charm reminiscent of certain Venetian architecture on the lagoon.
Inside there are interesting historical elements such as the entrance hall, an inner courtyard with an 18th-century staircase and ornamental openings, although the property is private.
Current situation
Palazzo Martinelli is privately owned and not always open to the public. However, it is valorised during cultural events, extraordinary opening days (such as the FAI Days), or heritage events.
What to see and visit
From a touristic point of view, Palazzo Martinelli is especially interesting from the outside, for the elegance and scenography of its façade and loggia overlooking the harbour. Even without entering the building, it is one of the reasons why a stroll through Monopoli's Porto Vecchio is worthwhile.
Highlights of the experience
Loggia with ogival arches: the view towards the port is one of the most photographed views of Monopoli.
A walk on the Porto Vecchio: the palace is one of the historical buildings that can be admired in the contrast between the sea, traditional boats (gozzi) and architecture.
Eighteenth-century and neo-Gothic architectural details: from the large windows with tympanums to the decoration of the loggia.
Practical advice for the visit
Accessibility
The palace can easily be admired from the outside in any season.
To enter the interior, it is necessary:
visit during extraordinary cultural events (e.g. FAI Days) or special openings;
check with the municipality of Monopoli or local tour operators for possible guided tours.
When to go
At sunset, the lighting on the harbour and on the façade makes the building particularly scenic for photographs.
How to include it in a visit itinerary
Palazzo Martinelli can be visited in combination with:
The historic Old Port and its maritime atmosphere.
Castle of Charles V (part of the ancient city defences).
Basilica Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia, nearby.
A walk through the streets of Monopoli's historic centre.
Walking tour in the historic centre of Monopoli (1-2 hours)
The visit can begin at the Porto Vecchio of Monopoli, the authentic heart of the city and the point where sea, history and tradition meet. This is where the typical fishermen's "gozze" and spears, still in use today, overlook the harbour, creating a strongly identifiable scenario.
1. Palazzo Martinelli - Porto Antico
Directly overlooking the harbour, Palazzo Martinelli is one of Monopoli's most elegant and recognisable historical buildings. Its Venetian neo-Gothic loggia with ogival arches dominates the scene and offers one of the most photographed views of the town. Although it can mainly be visited from the outside, it is an essential stop to understand the architectural and aristocratic evolution of the old town.
2. Charles V Castle (2 minutes' walk)
Continuing along the sea we reach the Castle of Charles V, an imposing 16th-century fortification built to defend the city. Today it hosts exhibitions and cultural events and is one of the symbols of historic Monopoli.
3. Cathedral of Maria Santissima della Madia (5 minutes)
Entering the heart of the old town, one arrives at the Cathedral, the religious and spiritual fulcrum of the city. The Baroque interior and the history linked to the Madonna della Madia tell centuries of popular devotion.
4. Alleys of the historic centre
From here, the walk continues without a rigid route, letting the white alleys, small squares, minor churches and flower-decked balconies guide you. This is the most authentic part of the visit, ideal for discovering shops, hidden glimpses and Mediterranean atmospheres.
5. Return to the harbour at sunset
The return towards the harbour, especially at sunset, offers an impressive view of Palazzo Martinelli illuminated by the warm light of the sun setting over the sea.