The Diarygame || Travel Diary: Tremiti Islands, Monday, August 12

Our first excursion was a boat tour that took us to explore several sea caves and admire the distinctive Mediterranean vegetation, including the “flag vegetation.” This type of vegetation clings tenaciously to the rocks and arid slopes, creating unique and captivating landscapes.

A particularly moving moment was swimming near the submerged statue of Padre Pio. Standing four meters tall and located at a depth of twelve meters, the statue is visible from the surface due to the clarity of the water and serves as both a spiritual and underwater pilgrimage site. Padre Pio, known as the protector of fishermen, is an important symbol of devotion for both the locals and visitors to the islands.

Image source Padre Pio

After the aquatic excursion, we enjoyed local cuisine featuring fresh fish and vegetables, perfect after a day at sea. We then visited the historic center of San Nicola, exploring the Church of the Abbey of San Nicola and the castle.

The church, founded in the 13th century by Benedictine monks and later passed to the Cistercians, is adorned with medieval mosaics. These mosaics, with their religious and symbolic motifs, reflect the Byzantine and Romanesque influences of the time and served both to decorate and to educate the faithful.

The climb to the abbey complex was challenging, especially in the summer heat, but the beauty and history revealed along the way made the effort more than worthwhile. The abbey, with its sober architecture and frescoes, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the sea and the archipelago, making us feel immersed in another era.

To conclude our visit, we dove once more into the crystal-clear waters before heading back to Peschici and enjoying another spectacular sunset.

I hope that my account of the trip has inspired you to consider the Tremiti Islands for your next adventure.

I look forward to sharing more experiences with you!
See you soon.