It belongs to the network of 'Torri Costiere' commissioned by the Spanish Viceroy Pedro de Toledo in the mid-1500s.
The tower was constructed using local calcarenite stone, commonly known as 'tufo', which is prone to erosion by salt spray.
During its active period, guards stationed at the tower communicated with neighboring towers like Torre San Vito via light signals at night.
The design follows the 'tronco-piramidale' (truncated pyramid) style, which was specifically engineered to withstand cannon fire and resist siege tactics.
Torre Incina is a 16th-century coastal watchtower located on the Adriatic shore between Monopoli and Polignano a Mare. Built as part of a defensive network against Ottoman pirate incursions, it features a pyramidal trunk base typical of the Viceroyalty of Naples period. The site overlooks a rocky coastline characterized by small coves and sea caves. The structure is situated within the Contrada Corvino area, providing a direct vantage point over the Gulf of Bari. It remains a representative example of Puglia's extensive coastal monitoring infrastructure, designed for visual communication using smoke and fire signals. The tower is currently preserved as a historical landmark that marks the boundary between the administrative territories of Monopoli and Polignano.
From the rocky shoreline looking up at the tower with the Adriatic Sea as the backdrop.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear as the surrounding terrain consists of uneven, rocky coastal paths.
Bring sun protection and hydration, as the site is fully exposed to the elements with no natural shade.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby coastal cliffs, as the tower is located directly on a popular scenic walking trail.
Attempting to enter the structure if signage indicates it is private property or structurally unstable.
