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Polignano a Mare
Comune di Polignano a Mare
View of Polignano a Mare
View of Polignano a Mare
Arms of Polignano
Coat of arms
Country Italy
Region Apulia
Frazioni Casello Cavuzzi, Chiesa Nuova, San Vito and a part of Triggianello
Area
 • Total 67 km2 (26 sq mi)
Elevation
24 m (79 ft)
Population
 (1 January 2021)
 • Total 17,491
 • Density 261.1/km2 (676/sq mi)
Demonym(s) Polignanesi
Time zone UTC+1 (CET)
 • Summer (DST) UTC+2 (CEST)
Postal code
70044
Dialing code 080
Patron saint St. Vitus
Saint day June 15

Polignano a Mare is a beautiful town in southern Italy. It's located right on the Adriatic Sea in a region called Apulia. This town is famous for its stunning cliffs and sea caves. People in Polignano a Mare mainly earn a living from tourism, farming, and fishing. It's a popular spot for visitors from all over the world.

History of Polignano a Mare

Ancient Beginnings

People have lived in the area around Polignano a Mare for a very long time. Archeologists have found old remains in a place called Santa Barbara. Many believe this was once an ancient Greek city named Neapolis.

Some historians think that Dionysius II of Syracuse founded this city in the 4th century BC. Other stories suggest that Julius Caesar might have founded Polignano a Mare. It was an important stop along an old Roman road called the Via Traiana.

A Center for Trade

Because of its great location on the Adriatic Sea, Polignano a Mare quickly became a busy trading center. Ships would come and go, bringing goods from different places. This helped the town grow and become well-known.

Foreign Rule and Growth

Different empires and kingdoms ruled Polignano a Mare over the centuries, each helping it develop. In the 6th century, the Byzantine Empire helped organize the town's government.

Later, in the 11th century, the Normans took over. They helped the local economy by boosting the production of olive oil. This made the town's economy stronger.

Protecting the Town

The Angioinians, another ruling family, built strong defenses around the town. These fortifications protected Polignano a Mare from dangers like the Turkish army and various illnesses.

Under the Aragonese crown, Polignano a Mare reached its best time. Both its economy and culture thrived. Business people and traders from all over the world came to meet and trade here.

Famous Landmarks to See

Polignano a Mare has many interesting places to visit. Here are some of them:

  • Fondazione Museo "Pino Pascali"
  • Palazzo dell'Orologio (Clock Palace)
  • Abbey of San Vito Martire
  • Church of Santa Maria Assunta
  • The Grotta Palazzese Hotel
  • Lama Monachile
    Lama Monachile Arpa 2022
    Lama Monachile is a famous beach nestled between cliffs.

Getting Around Polignano a Mare

The town has its own train station, called Polignano a Mare railway station. This makes it easy for people to travel to and from Polignano a Mare by train.

Twin Towns

Polignano a Mare has special friendships with other towns. These are called "twin towns":

  • Italy San Miniato, Italy
  • Italy Forio, Italy
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