Castle of Santo Stefano, Medieval castle on Adriatic coast in Monopoli, Italy

Castle of Santo Stefano, also called Abbazia di Santo Stefano, is a coastal fortress on a small peninsula outside Monopoli, between the inlets of Santo Stefano and Ghiacciolo. It was founded in 1086 by Goffredo, count of Conversano, and later refortified by the Knights of Malta, who added a moat that is still visible. The complex includes a Benedictine monastery and a well for freshwater.

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.