Macchia Di Monte between Romanesque architecture, olive groves and excursions

Macchia Di Monte combines rural cultural heritage with religious sites, ancient destinations and paths through the Monopoli hills. San Michele in Frangesto is particularly distinctive: the church was built in the Apulian Romanesque style and has three naves. It is located along the old panoramic road from Monopoli towards Selva di Fasano, in the hamlet of Loggia di Pilato.

Romanesque architecture and rural cultural heritage in Monopoli

Monopoli’s rural cultural heritage includes trulli, historic masserie, small farmhouses and underground olive mills situated among centuries-old olive groves. Masseria Verbena is located in a former olive mill that was restored through extensive conservation work. Also located in Macchia di Monte is the Eremo Sant’Antonio Abate. It houses a Centro di Spiritualità that promotes diocesan initiatives.

Ancient sites around Macchia al Monte

The ancient site of Egnazia - Necropoli is located around Macchia al Monte. The Museo Archeologico Di Egnazia is also located around Macchia al Monte. The ancient site of Egnazia - Criptoportico is likewise located around Macchia al Monte. The ancient site of Egnazia is also in the vicinity of Macchia al Monte. The Zoosafari Fasanolandia zoo is also located in this area. This means that several destinations around Macchia al Monte can be planned for the Egnazia sites and the Museo Archeologico Di Egnazia.

Hills, beaches and caves around Macchia al Monte

The Monopoli hills are characterized by agriculture and include orchards and olive groves. The area around Macchia al Monte also includes Spiaggia Marina Grande beach, Spiaggia Torre Canne beach and the Castellana Caves. For planning purposes, a distinction can be made between the Monopoli hills and the destinations around Macchia al Monte.

Hiking, cycling and botanical impressions in Macchia di Monte

An easy circular hike begins at the Eremo Sant’Antonio Abate in the Macchia di Monte area and follows Path No. 4 uphill to the hamlet of Impalata. The hike therefore requires planning for an uphill section. A linear cycling route begins in Macchia di Monte and ends in Contrada Tortorella Impalata. Since the starting point and destination differ, this route requires different planning from the circular hike. In addition, the “Life in Masseria Verbena” event in 2024 included a botanical walk with agronomist Pietro Moro. An event in Contrada L’Assunta was held for the fifth time at Masseria Mammut on the S.P. 212 in Macchia di Monte.

More places for planning your trip to Apulia

More destinations: Noci, Modugno, Triggianello, Santo Spirito, Monopoli, Altamura, Sammichele Di Bari, Valenzano

To the higher-level travel overview: Bari.