In the heart of Monopoli’s historic centre, our light-filled bel étage unfolds beneath almost five-metre-high vaulted ceilings made of local tuff stone. Two large limestone arches define the dining room, giving the space an almost grand, stately presence. Above it all lies our private, wind-sheltered rooftop terrace, overlooking a picturesque sea of rooftops, domes, and the cathedral.

The historic townhouse

As a designer couple, we created Due Pulcini for the kind of travel we love ourselves: being away with friends, cooking together, and spending long evenings around the table – without having to compromise on privacy.

Within the nearly five-metre-high rooms, with their warm tuff stone vaults, we created two acoustically separated suites – La Grandezza and Il Salone. Ideal for two couples or a family travelling with grandparents. Each suite has its own bathroom and a custom-made king-size canopy bed with a topper, adding a subtle touch of five-star hotel comfort.

The suites are complemented by Il Boudoir, a third room that is almost entirely defined by an extra-wide daybed (160 × 195 cm), which can be converted into a comfortable double bed with an additional topper – perfect for two additional guests or as a quiet reading retreat.

The living, dining and kitchen areas form the spacious heart of the apartment – all conveniently arranged on one level, a rarity in Monopoli’s historic centre. However, Due Pulcini is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible, as the apartment is located on the first floor and reached via a private staircase from Via Sant’Angelo.

The kitchen – the heart of Due Pulcini

If there is one space that truly defines Due Pulcini for us, it is the kitchen and its adjoining dining area. It is the centre of the apartment – a small tribute to Italian everyday culture, where life revolves around cooking and eating.

The freestanding black kitchen island, made of marbled composite stone, is equipped with modern appliances: an extra-wide induction hob, a large sink (yes, even baking trays fit), and plenty of workspace for preparing meals together – ideally with a glass of wine in hand.

Above it, a suspended metal rack – inspired by professional kitchens – keeps pots and pans within easy reach. Among them, one particularly large pot for spaghetti alle vongole for a whole extended family.

Equally essential: sharp kitchen knives, a proper Parmesan grater, solid Italian tableware, enough cutlery for six to eight guests, and high-quality wine and champagne glasses. Because few things are sadder than drinking a good wine from thick, dull glasses.

In the dining room, we deliberately set modern elements against the historic architecture: a large table with a marble-effect surface, deep orange design chairs by Jan Kurtz, and a sparkling 1970s chandelier that transforms the space into an almost cinematic setting in the evening, framed by the two imposing arches.

The rooftop terrace

Above the apartment, our private, wind-sheltered terrace offers a large dining table for up to eight people, two straw umbrellas, two generous sun loungers, and plenty of greenery.

From here, you look out over rooftops and terraces: laundry moving gently in the breeze, the cathedral, the domes of nearby churches – and occasionally exchange a few words with Rocco and his wife across the way as they enjoy their morning coffee.

Monopoli

Monopoli may no longer be a hidden gem – but it remains refreshingly unpretentious. The old town sits right by the sea, with small coves tucked between white stone houses. In the morning, fresh fish is sold at the harbour; in the evening, the trattorias fill with locals – not just tourists.

Thanks to its central location, Monopoli is an ideal base for exploring Puglia: Polignano a Mare (15 minutes), Alberobello with its trulli (30 minutes), Ostuni (45 minutes), or Lecce (about an hour). But more often than not, you simply stay in Monopoli – swimming at the small Cala beaches, enjoying an aperitivo by the harbour, or wandering through the narrow streets of the old town.

At a glance
- Ideal for up to 6 guests
- 2 suites with king-size canopy beds
- 2 bathrooms
- Optional third room (Il Boudoir)

Suitable for: couples / families / guests with pets / workation / photoshoots