Scoglio dell'Eremita: The Hermit's Rock on the Polignano Coast

Scoglio dell'Eremita, also known as Isolotto di San Paolo, is a rocky islet off the coast between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, about 30 meters high and recognizable by the iron cross on its summit.

The legend

According to local tradition, passed down through generations among Polignano's fishermen, a hermit - described in different versions as a missionary returning from the Holy Land or a Basilian monk fleeing the East - chose this isolated rock to live in solitude, devoted to prayer and contemplation. The story is said to date back to the 11th century, though no documents confirm the exact date.

What remains today

• The remains of a chapel dedicated to Sant'Antonio Abate
• A well for collecting rainwater
• An iron cross, placed in 1901 by missionary friars in honor of San Vito Martire, patron saint of Polignano a Mare

The rock is also home today to the Audouin's gull (Larus audouinii), considered one of the most beautiful gulls in Europe.

How to see it

Scoglio dell'Eremita is visible while sailing along the coast during the boat tour between Monopoli and Polignano, along with other landmarks like Lama Monachile.

Frequently asked questions

Can you land on Scoglio dell'Eremita?
It's not a standard landing stop on our tours: it's viewed while sailing along the coast.

Why is it also called Isolotto di San Paolo?
That's the islet's official name, while "Scoglio dell'Eremita" recalls the legend of the monk said to have lived there in solitude.

This is one of the landmarks you can see along the coast: read the complete guide to what to see between Monopoli and Polignano or discover luxury yacht charter in Puglia.

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