The Basilica of Maria Santissima della Madia in Monopoli: History and Legend
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The Basilica Concattedrale di Maria Santissima della Madia is Monopoli's cathedral (Duomo di Monopoli) and co-cathedral of the Diocese of Conversano-Monopoli, as well as an Italian national monument. In October 1921 Pope Benedict XV raised it to the rank of minor basilica.
History
- The site shows layers dating back to around 4500 BC, with documented human presence as early as the Bronze Age
- The Romanesque cathedral was probably built starting in 1107, on the remains of an ancient pagan temple dedicated to Maia and Mercury
The legend
The basilica arose following the miracle of the Icon that arrived in Monopoli on a raft on December 16, 1117. According to legend, construction of the church stalled for a long time because the beams needed to complete the roof were missing. The wooden beams from the raft were used to finish the cathedral's roof, a miracle still commemorated today.
The icon's arrival is celebrated every year on December 16, with a procession reenacting its arrival from the sea.
How to visit
The basilica is located in the heart of Monopoli's historic center, easily reachable on foot.
Frequently asked questions
It holds the icon of the Madonna della Madia, at the center of the legend of its miraculous arrival by sea in 1117.
On December 16, with a procession reenacting the icon's arrival on the raft.
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