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Beach · Polignano a Mare, Apúlia
Lama Monachile
A small inlet between cliffs next to the historic center of Polignano, with a pebble beach and a stone bridge over the old Via Traiana. It's the town's most famous view.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lama Monachile
The Lama Monachile, also called Cala Ponte, is a lama — a narrow valley carved by rainwater — that ends at the sea between two rock faces. The name recalls the monk seal (foca monaca), which used to live in the area. In the 15th century, during Venetian rule, the inlet served as a commercial port.
At the bottom of the inlet is a small pebble beach, surrounded by the houses of the historic center built on the cliff edge. Above it runs the bridge that carries the old Via Traiana, the Roman road that linked Benevento to Brindisi, rebuilt in the Bourbon period.
The most photographed view is of the bridge itself and the viewpoints beside it, where the beach is framed by rock and houses. You descend to the sand via a staircase from the street.
The inlet has hosted stages of international high-diving championships several times, with platforms installed on a terrace above the sea.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes for the viewpoint to half a day for the beach.
Best time
The swimming season typically runs from June to September; in July and August the beach fills up early. For photos with few people, go early in the morning or outside high season. In the late afternoon the light hits the cliffs from the side.
How to get there
It is about 1 km from Polignano a Mare station, roughly a 15-minute walk through the newer part of town to the bridge next to the Arco Marchesale. The beach is accessed by stairs from the street.
Tip
The beach is small and pebbly: bring water shoes and avoid peak hours in summer. There is no typical resort-style beach infrastructure; bring what you need. The sea can get rough; respect the flags and warnings.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lama Monachile
Can you swim at Lama Monachile?
Yes. The bathing season typically runs from June to September. The beach is pebbly and small, and it gets crowded in July and August.
Where is the most well-known view?
From the Via Traiana bridge, which spans the cove, and from the viewpoints beside the historic center.
Is there an entrance fee for the beach?
No. It's a public beach, with no paid sunbed or umbrella service on the sand.
Why is it called Lama Monachile?
Lama is the local name for the valleys carved by water that descend to the sea. Monachile recalls the monk seal, which used to inhabit those caves.