Castle of Santo Stefano

Castle of Santo Stefano is a stone fortress on the Adriatic coast near Monopoli with a rectangular layout, central courtyard, ancient well, and two defensive towers overlooking the sea. The structure sits on a peninsula and is surrounded by two natural harbors that form part of the coastal landscape.

Count Goffredo of Conversano built the coastal fortress in 1086 as a strategic defense against seaborne attacks. The stronghold became an important position in medieval coastal protection for the region.

The castle entrance displays carved stone images of Saints Stefano and Giorgio that show how religious beliefs shaped medieval building practices in this region. These religious symbols were part of daily life for people who lived and worked here during that time.

Visitors can explore the fortress structure including the preserved moat and climb the defensive towers. Wear comfortable shoes since the ground is uneven and pathways are not continuous throughout the site.

A natural freshwater spring flows within the castle grounds, once supplying a Benedictine monastery. This spring also served as a crucial water source for ships traveling between Bari and Brindisi.