Five “Must Sees” in Polignano a Mare – ITALY
Polignano a Mare is a town on Italy’s southern Adriatic coast. It’s known for beaches like the white-pebble Cala Porto, which is bordered by a Roman bridge. Crystal clear waters and cliffs carved by the sea give Polignano a Mare its uniqueness. It is a small town known also as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” – just over 18 miles from Bari. Overlooking the sea, San Vito Abbey has a Romanesque church and a 16th-century tower and, like every Italian town, there’s plenty of beautiful cathedrals to be seen.
Being a seaside town, Polignano a Mare naturally focuses on tourism, agriculture and fishing. It is believed to be the site of the ancient Greek city of Neapolis of Apulia, not mentioned by any ancient records but attested to by many coins. Evidence of the Roman empire in the past include the bridge on the Via Traiana. The high cliffs and jagged coastline between Palazzese Cave and Lama Monachile, make Polignano’s shoreline one of Puglia’s most beautiful coastal stretches, peppered with hidden inlets and charming sandy bays.
The fascinating historical center of the town reveals traces of its Arab, Byzantine, Spanish and Norman past, including the remains of the four watchtowers that once guarded the ancient town. Head through the Arco della Porta (the Door Arch) – once the town’s only entrance – and you’ll find yourself in the magical center of the city.
Here are only a few of the amazing experiences you will cherish when you visit Polignano a Mare….one of the most beautiful Italian coastal towns:
1. Abbazia di San Vito
This is Polignano a Mare’s main attraction. The church, a Benedictine foundation, was designed in the 10th century and was originally the home of the minor monasteries of the SS Apostles in 1785. The church is unique in that it has an irregular quadrangular plant, with a huge porch on the main entrance while the church’s transept is surmounted by a small circular dome. It’s an impressive sight to behold. The moment you step up to the church and enter the bastion of religion you will be captivated by its intricate designs as well as the many gorgeous sights.
2. Lama Monachile Cala Porto
Lama Monachile Cala Porto is one of the most beautiful sights in Polignano a Mare. A beautiful bay with long, spectacular sandstone walls, this is the foundation upon which the city is built and a must see when visiting Polignano a Mare. You will have to fight the crowds. But, don’t worry, it’s all part of the charm and if you’re willing, you can even swim out a little way to get away from the crowds and catch some spectacular views from the water. If you can find a spot for your towel, you can people watch, while enjoying the sun, sand and sea.
3. Statue of Domenico Modugno
The pride and joy of Polignano, Domenico Modugno was a famous Italian singer, songwriter, actor, guitarist, and even a member of the Italian Parliament. Domenico became famous for his song Nel blu dipinto di blu (“In the Sky, Painted Blue”). Although this statue is a tribute to Domenico Modugno, it is also a great landmark and a meeting point. And maybe, if you strain your ears, you can almost make out the familiar tunes of his 1958 international hit song.
4. Polignano a Mare Beach
Cliff diving is one of many things that Polignano a Mare is famous for. The beach is, of course, a wonderful sight and with its crystal clear, azure blue water, one cannot help but simply dive right in and cool off, amidst the beautiful cliffs. This is a beautiful beach resort with sun, sand and of course, sea so you can let your hair down when you visit. There are plenty of beaches you can explore. Although crowded, there’s plenty of seafood including tasty grilled octopus paninis! Once you reach the water, you’ll be stunned by how insanely beautiful it is.
5. Centro Storico Polignano a Mare
This is the old town portion of Polignano a Mare. Stunningly beautiful, there’s plenty to see, eat and drink while strolling around. One of Polignano’s pride and joys is its ice cream. Remember to eat at least one scoop a day while enjoying the impossibly gorgeous sights of the old town and history it oozes.
And the food…. did I mention the food in this area?
Two recipes that are enjoyed in and native to this region are Focaccia Pugliese with Tomatoes and Rapini with Fava Beans. Accredited author – Rita Romano has shared these tasty recipes with us so indulge yourself a bit and enjoy these authentic Italian delicacies to your heart’s delight
HOT OFF the PRESS – Rita Romano’s newest book – Italian Gluten Free Gastronomy: The Art of Selecting, Preparing and Savoring Gluten Free Meals is available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Italian-Gluten-Free-Gastronomy-Selecting-ebook/dp/B07BP5TJ7J?tag=flaforsit-20
Focaccia Pugliese with Tomatoes
Ingredients:
All-purpose flour – 4 1/2 cups
Salt – 1 Tbsp.
Sugar – 1 Tbsp.
Water – 2 cups, very warm, not hot
Active dry yeast – 1 package
Olive oil – 1 Tbsp.
Topping:
Olive oil – 1/3 cup
Canned plum tomatoes – 7, chopped and drained (you may use fresh, small round)
Oregano – 1 tsp.
Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation:
In a large bowl, stir yeast into 2 cups of warm water.
Add 1 Tbsp. of sugar; let stand for five minutes.
Add 1 Tbsp. of oil, 1 Tbsp. of salt. Stir in the flour a little at a time.
Knead until you can form a soft and smooth dough.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Coat a 12 x 17 inch ovenproof pan with olive oil.
Shape the dough about 1/2 inch thick to fit the pan.
Make a series of small dimples on the surface of the dough and place a piece of tomato in each dimple.
Sprinkle with oregano, salt, pepper and the rest of the oil.
Bake in a preheated oven at 400ºF (200ºC) for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Rapini with Fava Beans
Ingredients:
Fava beans:
Dried split fava beans – 2 cups
Salt – 1 tsp.
Dried bay leaves – 2 whole
Onion – 1 small, quartered
Rapini:
Rapini – 1 lb., washed, trimmed and cut into 3-inch lengths
Extra virgin olive oil – 1/2 cup
Freshly-ground black pepper – to taste
Fresh garlic – 3 cloves, chopped
Red pepper flakes – 1/2 tsp. or to taste
Preparation:
Soak dried beans overnight in cold water; drain and rinse
Place beans in a pot and cover with water by 2 inches. Add bay leaves; bring to a boil.
Add onion, cover and gently simmer for 60-75 minutes or until beans are very soft.
Drain, reserving cooking liquid and discard bay leaves.
Place the beans in food processor and puree.
Add some cooking liquid if necessary.
In a large pot cover rapini with salted water and cook until tender; drain and set aside.
In a large frying pan add olive oil. When oil is hot add garlic and red pepper flakes.
When garlic is light golden, add the fava puree, salt and pepper; mix well.
Add the rapini, mix well to blend the flavors. If it’s too dry, add some reserved liquid; taste for more seasoning and serve.
Note: The fava beans absorb lot of liquid so be sure to save the cooking liquid. This is more of a winter dish and is very filling and satisfying. Because rapini is seasonal, you can substitute a head of cabbage and follow the same instructions.
The information referred to for this summary article was that of Richard of Trip 101 – “8 Best Things To Do In Polignano a Mare, Italy” Published Sep 29, 2017
