Monopoli's Countryside by Bike

Explore the picturesque surroundings of Monopoli with an expert local advisor. Visit exclusive rural churches, farmhouses and underground oil-mills in a land rich in history. The tour begins visiting Monopoli’s old town with a stop by its Duomo, the Basilica Concattedrale, just before diving in the most typical Puglia countryside, surrounded by an ocean of Olive trees and dry-stone walls. The tour goes on to discover old pathways towards the rural church of Spirito Santo, this thousand-years-old church in a grotto has been in use since the IXth century and it houses some medieval frescoes. The olive trees with their twisted trunks and the fortified farmouses (masserie) are the expression of the fascinating and glamorous country life. The tour ends with a relaxing bike ride and a tasting of artisanal ice-cream (sorbetto) away from urban traffic. Notes: the itineary includes the stop related to the attractions we are going to visit. The remaining part will be a pleasent ride.

1. 1

   Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi

   10 min

   One of the most lively part of Monopoli is Garibaldi square in the heart of the old town, lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars. Piazza Garibaldi, currently the main tourist attraction in the city's old centre, for its beauty and sophistication, cultural interest and the presence of the most popular venues, derives historically from the silting up of the ancient port basin by the Normans around, according to sources, 1049.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   20 min

   The Rupestrian Church of the Holy Spirit is a real hypogeum church divided into three naves, marked by columns and round arches and closed by as many apses.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   10 min

   Masseia Conchia is an impressive settlement dating from the eighteenth century. Then white building, a huge staircase and the double bell tower draw the attention of the tourist immediately.

4. 4

   Cala Porta Vecchia

   5 min

   Framed by the whitewashed houses of the old town of Monopoli, Cala Porta Vecchia boasts a sandy beach lapped by crystal-clear water.

5. 5

   Chiesa di Santa Maria del Suffragio detta del Purgatorio

   10 min

   The Church of St. Maria del Suffragio, best -known as the Church of Purgatorio, is dated back to the early of the eighteenth century. The Church retains one of the most important reminders in relation to the cult of death: mummies.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Minimum 4 partecipants are required
• Children under 14-years are not admitted
• Minimum height to participate 150 cm

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.